When Hurricane Maria barreled through the small Caribbean island of Puerto Rico on September 20, 2017, it destroyed everything in its path. Fierce winds knocked out the island’s electricity. Thousands of homes and businesses were destroyed. Food and medical supplies were scarce. And tragically, more than 4,500 lives were lost.

One year after the storm, Puerto Ricans are still trying to recover from Hurricane Maria’s fury. The island’s infrastructure is under construction, electricity is being restored, and clean water is starting to flow.

But as outward recovery efforts are underway, there is a need to help Puerto Ricans cope with the internal trauma of losing their loved ones, homes, security, and beautiful island.

Bible-based Trauma Healing for Puerto Rico

In the Bible, we read about the destruction of Nehemiah’s hometown in Jerusalem due to a fire. After rebuilding the temple, the city’s walls, and gates, Nehemiah and the leaders focused on rebuilding the people spiritually through Scripture.

For a week, from daybreak to noon, Ezra the priest stood before the people and read from the Book of the Law of God. And God’s Word brought comfort, healing, and hope to the Jewish people amid their great pain.

Similarly, the Bible Society of Puerto Rico and local churches long to address the spiritual and emotional needs in their communities. This year, church leaders across Puerto Rico will be trained to facilitate Bible-based trauma healing. Through the work of this ministry, they learn how to guide groups of hurting people through a Scripture-based journey toward healing.

The goal is to train 36 church leaders to become trauma healing facilitators by July 29. Through healing groups at their churches, more than 320 Puerto Ricans will be able to bring their pain to Jesus in exchange for hope and peace.

Will you join us in praying for Puerto Ricans to encounter God’s loving presence through his Word?

Pray for:

• The People. Ask God to comfort those suffering from grief and loss. Pray that the people of Puerto Rico will receive the aid they need to continue rebuilding.
• Church Leaders. Pray that God will strengthen and guide the leaders facilitating trauma healing groups, raising up more to participate.
• Funds. Pray for the funds needed to print and distribute program materials for trainings and healing groups.