The Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) is at the forefront of making the Bible available, affordable, and accessible to Nigerians in their preferred languages and formats. Beyond distribution, BSN is committed to ensuring that people actively engage with the Word of God through life-transforming programmes. One such initiative is the Bible-based Trauma Healing Programme, which seeks to help people overcome emotional and psychological wounds using biblical principles. The causes of trauma in Nigeria are numerous and include insurgency, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, ritual killings, economic crises, domestic violence, natural disasters, sexual abuse, and other societal challenges.

Trauma Healing as a Path to Transformation: BSN firmly believes that transformation comes through trauma healing sessions, as any barrier to engaging with the Word of God is an obstacle that must be removed. Trauma healing helps reconnect people to God and His Word, restoring hope and emotional stability in the face of life’s challenges.

History and Reach of BSN’s Trauma Healing Programme: Since its inception in 2016, the BSN Trauma Healing Programme has brought relief and healing to millions of traumatised individuals. The initiative has grown to include various forms of engagement such as convening sessions, equipping sessions, audio trauma healing, trauma healing via radio, and healing groups.

According to the report given at the International Community of Practice, the BSN Trauma Healing Programme has recorded the following impacts: Convening Sessions: 948 participants; Initial Equipping Sessions: 599 participants; Audio Trauma Healing: 418 participants; New Audio Trauma Healing: 68 participants; Trauma Healing on Radio: Over 3,000,000 listeners; Advanced Equipping Sessions: 127 participants; Local Community of Practice (COP): 234 participants; Healing Groups: 14,183 participants; States Reached: 13

Testimonies of Transformation: Many participants have shared remarkable testimonies about the impact of trauma healing sessions in their lives. These sessions have provided emotional healing, restored broken relationships, and renewed faith in God. By addressing trauma biblically, individuals find the strength and courage to move forward despite past pain and suffering.

The Role of the Church in Trauma Healing: The Church plays a critical role in trauma healing, as it is God’s instrument for spreading His healing power. Churches must actively engage in trauma healing by sharing the life-changing message of the Bible with those who are hurting. Trauma healing sessions provide a safe space for individuals to process their pain and find hope through the Word of God.

Partnerships and Collaborations: BSN appreciates the support of various churches and organisations that have partnered with us in our trauma healing initiative. Notable partners include: The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG); Prison Fellowship of Nigeria; Chapel of Christ Our Light, University of Lagos; The Apostolic Church, LAWNA Territory; Lutheran Church of Nigeria, Yola; Faith Comes By Hearing (FCBH); Life Builder Initiative; Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Seventh-Day Adventist Schools.

A Call for More Church Involvement: While we appreciate our current partners, we appeal to more churches and Christian organisations to join in this mission. Trauma healing is a divine mandate, and as the body of Christ, we are called to bring hope to the brokenhearted. We encourage churches to support and actively participate in BSN’s Trauma Healing Programme, helping to bring God’s healing power to those in need.

Conclusion: The BSN Trauma Healing Programme has made a significant impact in addressing emotional and psychological wounds in Nigeria. However, the need remains vast, and more stakeholders must come on board to ensure that more people receive healing through God’s Word. By working together, we can make trauma healing a beacon of hope for millions across Nigeria, reinforcing the truth that in Christ, there is healing and restoration for all.

For more information about the Trauma Healing programme and how you can partner with BSN to bring relief to more people, kindly call our Programmes and Production Manager, Mrs. Grace Benjamin, on 08159094138 or 07031580684, or email distributionprogram@biblesociety-nigeria.org or visit our website: biblesociety-nigeria.org for more information.