The earthquake that struck Vanuatu on December 17, 2024, was devastating. Despite this, when I arrived in Port Vila this May, the air was full of anticipation and hope.
Local pastors and leaders were gathering for Healing the Trauma workshops.
Healing the Trauma is a series of workshops created by our partners, the Churches of Christ Conference of Vanuatu (CCCV). The workshops help participants explore how trauma impacts their thoughts, emotions, and bodies. It also gives them opportunities to share their stories.
Your generous donations to the Vanuatu Earthquake Appeal enabled us to respond to the situation quickly. Following the earthquake, Global Mission Partners collaborated with CCCV to assess the damage. Our partners delivered local materials and emergency supplies to those affected in the areas.
Now, our focus is on helping people cope with the ongoing trauma caused by the earthquake. This is through workshops, counselling, pastoral care, and help in accessing local services. Healing the Trauma workshops are part of this approach.
At the beginning of March, six church leaders in Luganville, Santo, were trained as facilitators for Healing the Trauma. They then travelled to Port Vila to conduct the training with 12 church leaders, pastors, and chiefs. Workshops have been facilitated in the community as a result.
In April, another team, this time 13 people, participated in the Healing the Trauma training in Luganville. This team then conducted training for 60 other leaders in Port Vila. These 60 leaders will facilitate workshops for Sunday Schools, youth groups, schools and women’s and men’s programs.
During my visit, I observed the training run at a local school. I listened to biblical passages that discussed what it means to bring our concerns and fears to God. I also heard many powerful stories, as we explored ways to identify and address trauma.
Each trainer brought their own moving stories. I was captivated by their resilience and commitment to healing.
My fondest memory is hearing the heartfelt stories of several young Christian leaders. They shared with me, sitting under a mango tree in front of the Sarabetu Church. Young leaders, both women and men, are dedicating their lives to serve their local communities in the face of natural disasters. These commitments are driven by a desire to stand up for God. What an inspiration!
Watching the leaders gather, I could see their joy radiating from the time together. They encouraged one another and shared ideas on how to transform their communities. I was deeply encouraged by this experience.
Please pray for the teams as they train and continue to support the people of Port Vila over the coming months. May healing take place in the lives of many people experiencing post-traumatic stress and physical and emotional suffering.
My experience visiting Port Vila wasn’t just about learning. It was a celebration of faith, resilience, and the human capacity to heal and uplift one another. I left full of hope, inspired by the strength of these Christian leaders. Leaders who are making a difference, even in the face of adversity.
Colin Battersby,
Director of Engagement