I feel like I’m hearing a lot about trauma these days.

It’s likely due to the growing awareness of mental illness and abuse we’ve seen lately. I’m sure it’s also because we’re in what seems like a never-ending pandemic—and so many have gotten sick, died, or lost loved ones. Even if you’re not a victim of trauma yourself, if you’re in ministry, it’s a regular part of life. It’s part of the job description. You help others navigate loss and pain.

This week, we’re featuring resources designed to help your church respond to traumatic events with sensitivity and effectiveness. It’s a sacred duty to speak into someone’s life when they experience trauma. Let’s make sure we’re doing it faithfully. Ask anyone the times they grew most, and nearly all will point to a season of great loss or pain. Responding to Trauma will help you see traumatic events as times of need, but also as opportunities to know God more deeply.

Losing a spouse to death is one of saddest, most traumatic events in any person's life. Urgent Care: Death of a Spouse is designed to help your church respond to this situation with grace, hope, and sensitivity, and with the practical tools necessary to offer tangible help.