Following a Disaster: Resources for Pastors
Following a Disaster: Resources for Pastors
The Southern New England Conference Disaster Resource Team is committed to helping your church in the event of a natural or man-made disaster. This protocol outlines the steps that will be taken to assist you.
Worship and prayer resources following natural disaster
- Litanies, prayers, hymns and poems from the Presbyterian Mission Agency
- Resources in times of terrorism, war and natural disaster available on The Text This Week
- O God Tender and Just: Reflections and Responses after September 11, 2001, by Elizabeth C. Nordbeck.
- On Frequent Journeys: Worship Resources on Uprooted Peoples, a book by Rebekah Chevalier.
SNEUCC Ministry for Health Resources
Signs, Symptoms and Resources for those Impacted by Disaster and Trauma
There is a typical pattern of reaction and behavior that is common to all people who have been through a crisis, disaster or traumatic incident. Read more about recognizing these behaviors here. Also read in this document:
- Helpful Ways to Unload Stress
- Emotional First Aid
- Providing Support to a Child who has Experienced Trauma
- Putting Our Hands in God's Hands: A Prayer to Release Trauma Anxiety
Signs, Symptoms and Resources for Those Impacted by Disaster and Trauma
How to Help Children Cope with Disaster
- A new downloadable booklet by FEMA and the Red Cross: Helping Children Cope with Disaster
- A resource from Mr. Rogers: Helping Children with Scary News
Do's and Don'ts after Disaster
All compassionate people want to respond following a disaster. Read this instructive blog by UCC pastor Jennifer Mills-Knutsen to learn what kind of help is truly helpful.
To share with your congregation from the EPA: Planning for Natural Disaster Debris
Tips for effective use of the media...
In the event of a disaster or tragedy, ministers may be called upon to comment, make statements, offer hope, and occasionally speak on behalf of congregants. Media interviews can offer the opportunity for a healing experience and may help advocate for a cause. These tips can help prepare pastors, lay leaders, and congregants for the interview process.