Trauma and Its Effects on Wellbeing in Clergy Settings
Explore the impact of trauma on clergy wellbeing, highlighting the importance of recovery and support within relationships. Insights from experts and biblical references shed light on the normal responses to abnormal events like trauma. Learn how to navigate trauma's effects and seek help when needed.
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Presentation Transcript
A normal response to abnormal events Clergy wellbeing in context Clergy wellbeing in context Peter Farley Peter Farley- -Moore Archdeacon of Hackney Moore Archdeacon of Hackney Stepney Area Conference May 2022
The core experiences of psychological trauma are disempowerment and disconnection from others. Recovery, therefore, is based upon the empowerment of the survivor and the creation of new connections. Recovery can only take place within the context of relationships; it cannot occur in isolation. Trauma and Recovery by Judith Lewis Herman
I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Romans 12:1
when we present our bodies to God we give not just our physical bodies but our entire being: the body itself and what we do with it Anyone who has breathing difficulties will tell you how hard it is to function when you cannot breathe fully. The body of Christ needs all its members functioning fully, with all their Spirit-given gifts, for the body to live
For we call our body and soul the sides of the ladder and into these sides our divine vocation has inserted the different steps of humility and discipline we must climb (Rule of Benedict 7.25)
Trauma is a normal response to abnormal events Dr Stephanie Covington
Trauma occurs when an external event overwhelms a person s physical and psychological coping strategies Bessel van der Kolk
Trauma Traumatic events can happen at any age and can cause long- lasting harm. Everyone has a different reaction to trauma, so you might notice any effects quickly, or a long time afterwards. If you've been affected by trauma, it's important to remember that you survived however you could and are havingcommon, normal reactions. Going through further trauma can also cause you to start being affected by past experiences, or make existing problems worse. It's ok to ask for help at any time including if you're not sure if you've experienced trauma.
Safety Safety Trustworthiness Trustworthiness Choice Choice Collaboration Collaboration Empowerment Empowerment
What helps? Know your role Know your resources Know your strengths Know your limits Know the 5 principles /values
Ask yourself. Am I helping others/self to feel safe? Am I working collaboratively? Am I trustworthy? Am I looking for ways to give others/self choice? Am I empowering others?
Safety: Ensuring physical and emotional safety 1.Prompt and clear communication 2.Emotional safety: Permission to say no and to say yes without fear of reprisal 3.Hospitality 4.Generosity Speaking the truth in love Ephesians 4:15
Trustworthiness: Task clarity, consistency and interpersonal boundaries 1. Respectful and professional boundaries are maintained: 2. Building an organisation where everyone is clear about their role and contribution and supported to contribute 3. doing what you say you will do not over promising. Completer finisher 4. Integrity and confidentiality Let your yes be yes Matthew 5:37
Choice: Individual has choice and control 1.Clergy have agency , autonomy as office holders is respected 2.Individuals are clear about their rights and responsibilities 3.Support in seeing where choice is possible despite constraints and limited resources: e.g. meetings/mission/ministry choices 4.Diversity of expressions of church welcomed space for all choose this day whom you will serve - Joshua 24:14-15
Collaboration: Making decisions with the individual and sharing power 1.Individuals have a significant role in planning and evaluating ministry 2.Consultation and discussion over major decisions and strategy 3.Subverting the patriarchy 4.Overcoming isolation and lone working All of you together are Christ s body, and each of you is a part of it - 1 Cor 12:27
Empowerment: Prioritising empowerment and skill building 1. Provide an atmosphere that allows individuals to feel validated and affirmed with each and every contact with the Archdeaconry office 2. Training 3. Respecting and affirming each other s gifted-ness 4. Readiness to serve Therefore go and make disciples of all nations -Matthew 28:19
The core experiences of psychological trauma are disempowerment and disconnection from others. Recovery, therefore, is based upon the empowerment of the survivor and the creation of new connections. Recovery can only take place within the context of relationships; it cannot occur in isolation. Trauma and Recovery by Judith Lewis Herman
