Faith Leaders as First Responders to Crisis


When: 7/23/2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where: Virtual Meeting - Join Meeting

Undesignated First Responders  

When a crisis occurs, individually or communally, it may result in traumatic experiences. Research has shown a pattern of people seeking their faith providers as a source of support, comfort, and spiritual guidance, sometimes as first contact when these crises inevitably occur. As undesignated "First Responders," faith leaders are present when suffering, anguish, or brokenness acutely exists. When the community perceives their faith leaders as trustworthy, safe, and compassionate, it emphasizes the positive role of the body of the church, synagogue, or mosque toward the embodiment of the spirit of unity and solidarity against the tragedies of this world.

It is a common theme in faith communities to act on the commands of their religious tenets to help others in need. For example, in the Bible, numerous scripture references dictate the need to care for others, such as Galatians 6:2, which states, "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ" (NIV), while Mark 12:31 states "love your neighbor as yourself" (NIV). It is the obligation of faith leaders and the members of their congregation to act out the divine call of compassion, kindness, and assistance, especially in times of crisis.

Trauma-informed Care Responses            

Unfortunately, trauma is common and pervasive. Statistics show that 70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced some traumatic event at least once in their lives. That is 223.4 million people![1]

It is helpful to remember that not everyone who experiences a stressful event or a crisis will develop trauma. However, trauma can occur because of a crisis. Trauma-informed care responses are essential components of faith leaders' repertoire of ministry tools since, by default, they become First Responders. A best practice of a trauma-informed approach is the need to engage people as if they have experienced trauma to prevent re-traumatization.

The path to becoming a trauma-informed faith community involves faith leaders and their followers to proceed through the journey of:

  • Realizing the widespread impact of trauma through awareness and understanding the potential paths for recovery,
  • Recognizing the signs/ symptoms of trauma and the various kinds of traumas,
  • Avoiding re-traumatization by utilizing the knowledge gained through education,
  • Integrating trauma-informed best practices into policies and procedures,
  • Connecting trauma survivors to support options and services,
  • Redeeming trauma through connectedness, hope, meaning, and purpose.

A Victim-centered Approach

It is important to be aware that when faith leaders function as first responders to a crisis resulting in a person being impacted by crime and violence, a victim-centered approach is necessary while integrating trauma-informed care. A victim-centered approach involves engaging victims in a way that prioritizes their safety and rights while providing choices, avoiding judgment, and protecting confidentiality.

Faith leaders have historically been the front runners of crisis intervention for the community. Their response to the pain of human suffering is a long-standing and faith-filled quest for spiritual care. Faith leaders who employ trauma-informed care practices contribute to the health of their communities and strengthen the foundation support that connects us all in times of need.

(1) The National Council for Behavioral Health. (2022). How to Manage Trauma [Infographic]. https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Trauma-infographic.pdf
(2) Aten, J. & Annan, K. (2023). 10 steps to better prepare your church to respond to trauma. Lifeway® Research. https://research.lifeway.com/2023/01/31/10-steps-to-better-prepare-your-church-to-respond-to-trauma/
(3)National Institute of Corrections (2024). Working with victims of crime: an integrated approach for community supervision professionals.

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