Trauma in Our Pews: Why the Church Must Pay Attention

The Church cannot faithfully shepherd what it does not understand. Trauma is shaping the lives of the people we serve—often quietly, often invisibly. It affects how people listen, trust, belong, and respond to the Gospel. Yet many of our ministry assumptions were formed without an awareness of its impact.

This primer, led by Dr. Christine Youn Hung and Dr. Sharon Prado, creates space to name that reality with clarity and care. Together, we will explore what trauma is, how it affects the body and relationships, and why a trauma-informed approach is essential for the Church’s witness today.

Whether or not you have used the language of trauma before, this conversation will help you see your people—and your ministry—more truthfully, and respond more faithfully.