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Healing and Hope – Addressing the Trauma of the Troubles
At General Synod 2023 the Church and Society Commission was requested to explore, and if necessary, recommend and/or draft resources that would enable Parishes to engage pastorally with, and care for, individuals and communities that are still deeply affected by trauma from ‘the Troubles’.
One element of the work done in response to this request was the creation of an informational booklet titled Healing and Hope – Addressing the Trauma of the Troubles, with the goal of highlighting support groups and other initiatives that may be of use to those living with this trauma, while also informing Clergy on some core elements of a trauma–informed response to victims. The booklet includes these practical resources alongside prayers and excerpts from victims’ stories, demonstrating the lasting effects of trauma, and how the Church can play a part in pastorally caring for those suffering.