Welcome to the Living Generously Podcast! Today, we're diving into an incredibly enriching topic that speaks directly to the heart of our mission: fostering environments within our churches that are informed, understanding, and above all, committed to healing. We're talking about trauma informed churches, a vital concept that embraces understanding, empathy, and the transformational power of connection before correction.

Our guest is James Mello, who brings his expertise as a children and youth discipleship leader from the South New Zealand conference, offering us invaluable insights. James takes us through the building blocks of what it means to be a trauma informed church—realizing the impact of trauma, recognizing the signs, responding effectively, and resisting retraumatization. He shares how churches can become safe havens where genuine connection and healing can take place, emphasizing the importance of creating environments filled with warmth and compassion, rather than judgment.

00:00 Trauma-Informed Organizations Explained

05:53 "God's Pursuit to Dwell Among Us"

07:53 "Truth Through Unconditional Love"

12:04 Intentional Love in Church Practices

16:06 "Trauma Education for Churches"

18:55 Christ-Centered Mental Health Benefits

22:34 Living Generously: Podcast Recap

James Mello email: [email protected]