I have been blessed by the response to the curriculum "Bruised Reeds and Smoldering Wicks," now having sent it out to ministries in 26 States and the District of Columbia. I have already received a little feedback and made some minor changes to content, but what I am most excited about is that the curriculum is now available in a downloadable digital format!
For those that have not seen previous posts on the curriculum, the study is for adult small groups or classes and is laid out into the following topics:
- Week One: Jesus and the children; key idea: Jesus welcomes ALL children, even those affected by trauma, toxic stress, or adversity (ACEs)
- Week Two: Advocacy... what is this "trauma-informed" talk all about?; key idea: In order to advocate for children and families impacted by trauma, your church should consider trauma-informed ministry [a copy of the print portion of this lesson is linked below for those that want to 'get a feel' for the curriculum!]
- Week Three: Was Jesus' ministry "trauma-informed?"; key idea: Jesus understood the devastating effects of trauma and adversity and his ministry was shaped in a way that responded to our needs.
- Week Four: How the traumatized can look like they "have it all together." key idea: those that are dealing with trauma don't all look the same. Even leaders in your community have been touched by trauma... so everyone should be treated compassionately.
- Week Five: Does being trauma-informed mean we avoid saying hard things? key idea: Jesus was compassionate, yet firm... being trauma-informed means you prepare for the strong reaction some topics may elicit, not that you avoid all issues that may elicit a strong reaction.
- Week Six: Responding to trauma within the compassionate Kingdom of God; key idea: God's Kingdom stands apart from this world's kingdoms, bringing justice and mercy where trauma and heartache have prevailed.
- BONUS MATERIALS: "Advocating for Rachel"--a case study from a licensed child and family therapist with suggestions for interventions that a church can appropriately implement to help hurting children and families!
Here's the link: SUNDAY SCHOOL CURRICULUM
Those who want or need a "hard copy" version of the curriculum will still be able to order that for $60 and receive a complimentary copy of the digital version as well. We've had a hard time keeping up with printing demands, so hard copies may take a while to get to you! However, if the digital version works in your context, it's only $35 and you get it seconds after completing your order!
Thank you for you work in creating trauma-informed communities. If this curriculum will be a help in interpreting the work to the Church, I am glad for it.
Blessings,
Chaplain Chris Haughee
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