An Exploration of Trauma-Informed Care in Christian Ministry and Leadership Through the Lens of Internal Family Systems

Abstract

This portfolio explores the role of church and ministry leaders in providing faith-based trauma-informed care. It explores the author’s personal and ministry context and the way it influences the author’s understanding of the topic. It includes a description of the author’s philosophy of Christian ministry and leadership through the lens of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and draws on the Biblical examples of the woman who reached to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment (Matthew 9:19-22; Mark 5:24-34; Luke 8:42b-48) and the woman at the well (John 4:1-42). This portfolio also includes a field research project that explored the perceptions, experiences, and competencies of church and ministry leaders in caring for members of their congregation and community who have experienced trauma. The research findings highlighted the importance of understanding trauma and the impact on the individual, the foundational importance of trust in the relationship, the value and need for collaborating with mental health professionals and service agencies, the need for education and training to be able to respond effectively to individuals seeking care, the importance of care for caregiver, and the recognition that ultimately, it is God who provides healing. The findings have the potential to help inform training programs and resources for church and ministry leaders to better care for members of their congregation and community who have experienced trauma.