We were warmly welcomed to St Mark’s Church Broomhill where there were about 40 people gathered for a half-day of learning (Saturday 19th October). I was not sure what to expect, but having had a background of volunteer chaplaincy in a mental health hospital, the subject interested me.
Hilary Ison gave a stimulating, informative and theologically-backed teaching session. I found that the material which she presented was accessible, yet at an intellectual level.
One of the highlights for me was learning more about the connection between our gut and our brain, via the vagal nerve. In Matthew chapter 9 verse 36, when Jesus is said to have compassion on the crowds, we learned from one of the attendants that the Greek word “splagchnixomai” is translated as, “To have the bowels yearn.” This shows that our basis for our feelings is in our gut, and this was known in Jesus’ time.
We learned more about how the pandemic has caused shared trauma, and that there has not been an ‘end’ to the uncertainty caused by Covid-19.
There were practical tips on how to equip ourselves to cope with trauma in ourselves, and those we encounter in our lives. There was a strong emphasis on self-care. I think that this is particularly important in a culture of over-working and 24-7 living. A saying which was quoted and I find helpful is,
“Put your own oxygen mask on before you seek to help others.”
I would highly recommend one of these workshops, I know that it will be a practical help in my personal life and ministry.
To contact the Diocesan Healing and Wholeness Team and to find out more or about similar events, healing.ministry@sheffield.anglican.org or visit our webpage Healing & Wholeness
It was a really good day – do have a look at some of the feedback below!
“It was an opportunity to network with other interested Healing and Wholeness teams across Sheffield.”
“This was informative, reflective and grounded in theology. Speaker knew her subject and spoke with wisdom and experience.”
“…self-care is not an optional extra! Jesus helps us to name stuff- which gives dignity, hope and respect…”
“…we are all wounded; we all have a part to play in the recovery process for ourselves and others.”
“People can be quite traumatised, but don’t outwardly show it. Be sensitive.”
“…Trauma at any age in life can affect the whole person, body, mind and spirit. It can leave lasting consequences and damage throughout the rest of life…”
“…I’d not really thought about congregational trauma before…”
“…it was well organised, challenging and comprehensive…”
“…I enjoyed the small group discussions at the tables without having to feed back…”
“…the speaker was excellent, people felt comfortable sharing stories and asking questions …”
“…I valued the opportunity to chat with others informally, no matter how briefly, and exchange ideas and experience. In fact, those short moments, with unforced sharing, gave helpful glimpses of the wider picture than our own little patch…”
