In April 2016, northern Ecuador was struck by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake. More than 650 people were killed and at least 16,600 were injured. Families were stripped of their homes, loved ones, and in many cases, hope.

Immediately following the tragedy, United Bible Society in Ecuador provided relief in the form of emergency supplies, hygiene products, and water. But they soon realized the needs went beyond physical. They began guiding survivors through Bible-based trauma healing to help them cope with their devastating pain and loss.

Two years later, northern Ecuador’s rebuilding efforts continue and progress advances. And although life goes on, so does the continued need for trauma healing, as painful wounds still exist for many of the earthquake’s survivors.

Spiritual Support through Bible-Based Trauma Healing

Bible-based trauma healing harnesses scriptural truths to help people deal with the effects of trauma. Trained facilitators guide participants through the process of letting go of pain and taking hold of God’s promises.

So far, more than 1,400 people in Ecuador have attended trauma healing sessions, which were facilitated by 30 trained volunteers. Praise God!

But the work is not yet finished. The hope is to train more facilitators so the life-giving, God-encountering benefits of trauma healing can be shared with Ecuadorians who are still suffering. Prayerfully, 300 additional facilitators will become trained, making a way for 20,000 more people to receive God’s comfort through this ministry.

We invite you to join us in prayer for the people of Ecuador as they encounter God’s peace through trauma healing.

Pray for:

• The people of Ecuador. Pray that God will heal wounded hearts, especially those who have been affected by this natural disaster. Ask God to meet them in their brokenness and replace their pain with hope.
• The church. Pray for the strength and unity of the church in Ecuador to keep sharing trauma healing with those who need it. Pray for more volunteers to become trauma healing facilitators.
• The rebuilding of this nation. Pray for wisdom for government officials as they seek to rebuild the areas devastated by the earthquake. Pray for the funds, strength, and resources needed to help the nation thrive again.