| abstract |
This project was initiated out of a concern regarding the then decline of church attendance at my church and others in the community. The project is an attempt to provide awareness, and education regarding Church Hurt as well as, a setting for engaging, support and healing can take place. The educational workshops will provide a process that is biblically supported, utilizing personal learning and improved engagement with practical practices to address the welfare of the wounded individuals, encourage behavioral change and improve member retention because of the behavioral change about acquired Church Hurt. Addressing the experiences of the wounded, in a safe space will provide our faith community and spiritual leadership an opportunity to identify ways to help in the healing process and provide support to traumatized persons. A focused educational process, equipped with basic awareness about the trauma experienced, and the effects on the individual in the healing process can result in a healthy transformation on several levels. Also, the workshops attendees will be made aware of how the relationship of the offender affects the relationship of the wounded, their faith or impression of faith-based organizations.
This project will create an awareness that will allow the participants to examine behavior witnessed or experienced in the church. The hope is that being aware of what Church Hurt is will help to identify the behavior that constitutes it, deter the behavior and or make amends where the behavior has already occurred.
The workshops will allow participants an opportunity to discuss their experiences. Research shows that the opportunity to talk about painful and traumatizing experiences is beneficial in the healing process. In addition, through personal learning, individuals will be encouraged to reframe the story. During the workshop those with wounds and trauma will be acknowledged and participants provided encouragement towards healing. If appropriate reconciliation efforts will be offered to parties involved. Resources include scripture, books, articles, devotionals, surveys, interviews and personal experience. To maximize the workshop experience, the facilitators will consist of ministers, and ministry leadership.
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