‘Many people who have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACES) have a negative view of God as father and for some the church’s unaccountable leadership has caused this. The way we demonstrate consistent, authentic compassion can repair this damaging view of God,’ says Ruth Stephens.
Having had several years working as an occupational therapist with adopted and fostered children and their families, I noticed first-hand the devastating impact of trauma upon a child’s whole life. It impacted their development in multiple ways: physical, sensory, emotional, social including family and social systems who needed much support. As I trained schools as part of my role, I began to be stirred by the needs of the body of Christ to also be equipped to serve those who had experienced adversity too.
READ MORE: From trauma to God’s glory
Founding Join the Dots charity emerged from a growing awareness that church needs to be more accessible to those who have had complicated backgrounds. This is why we serve to equip those whose Christian ministry involves supporting people who have experienced adversity, by providing training, resources and consultation.
We are living in times where trauma is mentioned regularly. Trauma is said not to be what happened to a person, but what happened inside of them as a result.
We are living in times where trauma is mentioned regularly. Trauma is said not to be what happened to a person, but what happened inside of them as a result. You may have heard the term “ACES”, short for “adverse childhood experiences”. Experiences such as these include physical or sexual abuse, physical or emotional neglect, household dysfunction related to parental mental health, conflict or substance abuse. Recent research highlights that around half the population have experienced ACES and it has shown the devastating effect these traumas can have upon a person’s emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing, well into adulthood.
Memories of trauma are stored subconsciously, deep in the body’s nervous system and sensory systems. When reminded of past traumatic events, these subconscious memories may pop up in the form of survival responses which may include fight, (loud, aggressive and in your face) flight, (chaotic and agitated) freeze, (numb or shutdown) or perhaps fawn, (fragile and blending in). These responses generally happen when someone fears that they are in some sort of danger and lead to coping mechanisms which impact everyday life. They hinder growth of healthy relationships, shrink support networks and reduce life opportunities.
READ MORE: How I developed a theology of trauma
As Christians we are called to follow Jesus’ example and reach out to those who are hurting and broken. Jesus noticed the marginalised and brought them into the centre of his ministry. Many ministries do follow this example, seeking to reach out to these people, but how well are we equipped to really get them? How adaptable are we to help people to feel both physically and emotionally safe? Felt safety is a huge need where trauma is concerned because the body remembers trauma and past adverse events can feel very real in the present moment.
People of all ages may experience sensory overload particularly in church activities because there are a lot of sensory demands such as people touching them
People of all ages may experience sensory overload particularly in church activities because there are a lot of sensory demands such as people touching them, loud noises or bright lights. This can be too much for those who have experienced neglectful care or a chaotic, abusive past, because in these instances, sensory experiences can overwhelm. Do we judge outward, challenging behaviours to be inconvenient or do we look behind the behaviours and see these actions as trying to express needs? After all, it is said that behaviour is communication.
To help such people we can make small adaptations to the environment such as creating quiet, nurturing places where people can reflect and re-calibrate, or chat with a supportive person. Our websites and welcome teams need to guide new people in reassuring, clear and warm ways. Even overly cheerful people can have a triggering effect! Being equipped to notice and provide that extra support or know where to refer them on to expert services is important.
READ MORE: Jesus said a woman forgets the anguish of giving birth because of her joy that a child is born - so why do I have post-birth trauma?
Many people who have experienced ACES have a negative view of God as father and for some the church’s unaccountable leadership has caused this. The way we demonstrate consistent, authentic compassion can repair this damaging view of God. The body of Christ in the 21st century needs to be authentic, accountable and accessible so that we are both supportive and actively prevent trauma from happening.
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