Trauma Healing International Community of Practice: A Journey Towards Resilience and Restoration
The Bible Society of Nigeria, in collaboration with the American Bible Society and the Trauma Healing Institute, proudly hosted a transformative two-day event on February 19 and 20, 2025, in Lagos. The gathering brought together trauma healing facilitators, mental health professionals, religious leaders, experts, faith-based organisations, and community workers to engage in meaningful discussions on trauma healing. With global crises such as conflicts, pandemics, economic instability, and displacement affecting millions, the event emphasised the critical role of Bible-based trauma healing interventions in building resilience and restoring hope.
The Trauma Healing International Community of Practice brought together voices from Ghana, Rwanda, Cameroon, Burundi, Mali, Liberia, Chad, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, USA, and Nigeria to address the critical issues of trauma, resilience, and healing in our rapidly changing world.
Understanding the Impact of Trauma
Trauma, often described as a wound of the heart and mind, leaves deep scars that affect every facet of life – relationships, families, bodies, and thoughts. As Psalm 147:3 reminds us, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” This event underscored the reality that while trauma can create barriers to meaningful engagement with Scripture, healing is always possible. In embracing this recovery journey, participants found strength in knowing that true rest is available as stated in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest“.
Event Highlights
Inspiring interactive Sessions: The dynamic sessions over the two days offered practical strategies and spiritual insights for navigating global crises. Discussions illuminated how trauma can obstruct spiritual growth and how healing can restore hope and connection. As Jeremiah 30:17 declares, “I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,” echoing the event’s powerful message of renewal. These interactive sessions provided a safe space for sharing and mutual support, reflecting the spirit of 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.“
Scriptural Engagement: Central to the forum was the role of Scripture in the healing process. The sessions addressed how trauma can hinder spiritual connection and offered guidance on how reconnecting with God’s Word can transform lives.
Collaborative Networking Opportunities: The event fostered partnerships among organisations and agencies working in trauma healing, encouraging cross-border collaborations for enhanced impact.
A Unified Vision for the Future: The gathering reaffirmed that healing, both personal and communal, is not only possible but essential. Rooted in faith and fortified by the Scriptures, participants departed with renewed vigour and practical tools to address trauma within their communities. They carried with them the promise of Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,” inspiring a collective commitment to overcoming adversity.
In a world fraught with uncertainty, the forum’s message was clear – reconnecting with our true source of strength, God and His Word, allows even the deepest wounds to mend. The Trauma Healing International Community of Practice stands as a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a resilient and thriving future.
Looking Ahead
The Bible Society of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to advancing trauma healing initiatives across communities in Nigeria and beyond. The Trauma Healing International Community of Practice was a resounding success, reinforcing the urgent need for Bible-driven, holistic approaches to trauma healing. As uncertainties persist in the global landscape, initiatives like this provide a beacon of hope, ensuring that individuals and communities receive the care, support, and spiritual nourishment they need to heal and thrive.
