Marie Laure* is a church leader in Uganda. She spends her days helping some of the country’s 1.2 million refugees adjust to their new lives. Many are scarred by the violence that forced them to flee their homes. Marie does her best to help them acclimate, but it’s never enough. Her help is like a single drop of rain in the desert — so much more is needed.

At a recent gathering of pastors involved in Bible-based trauma healing, Marie found she could no longer hold back her feelings. “I have listened to peoples’ problems all day, and I don’t need to hear anymore. I don’t have time for this!” she said.

Marie was in a safe, supportive place. She was with more than 60 leaders from East African churches who know how emotionally draining it is to lead Bible-based trauma healing — a ministry that uses Scripture to help people heal from their spiritual and emotional wounds. Marie’s church offers the program, but she — like many church leaders — forgets that leaders also need to hear God’s message of healing.

Marie’s outburst happened during a Community of Practice — an annual event where church leaders talk about the challenges they face in their work, the best practices they discovered, and ways to support each other in this emotional ministry.

They reminded each other that the lessons they teach are for the leaders as well as the participants. The ministry is based solidly on Scripture and includes help for everyone, including Marie.

Fighting fear

God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him. – 1 Peter 5:7

Help for the suffering

The Lord is near to those who are discouraged; he saves those who have lost all hope. - Psalm 34:18<

Help for wounded hearts

Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. –Proverbs 4:2

Promise of a better life

He will wipe away all tears from their eyes. There will be no more death, no more grief or crying or pain. The old things have disappeared. –Revelation 21:4<

Millions of people in the world today need Bible-based trauma healing. Thanks to the continued support of American Bible Society’s financial partners, refugees, prisoners, abandoned children, abused women, and victims of natural disasters get the help they desperately need and experience healing through God’s Word.

*Name changed to protect privacy.