The Embodied Gospel: Spiritually Formed to Experience and Offer God's Healing Presence

This 10-week course is offered at Light of Life Rescue Mission (for employees only).

Course Description

In this comprehensive course, participants will embark on aspects of the SIIMDA Soul Care approach and be invited to a transformative journey that integrates trauma-informed care with Christian principles to foster healing and restoration in individuals and communities. Drawing from the fields of psychology, theology, and neuroscience, this course offers a holistic understanding of trauma, interpersonal neurobiology, and the role of Christian spirituality in healing.

Through a blend of theoretical frameworks, practical exercises, and spiritual practices, participants will learn to cultivate a healing presence that honors the inherent dignity and worth of each individual. Grounded in Christian teachings, the course emphasizes compassion, empathy, and the redemptive power of love and presence in the healing process.

Key topics covered in this course include:

1. Understanding Trauma:

   • Definition and types of trauma

   • Impact of trauma on the brain, body, and spirit

   • Trauma-informed approaches to care and healing

2. Interpersonal Neurobiology:

   • Exploration of brain-body connections in trauma

   • Understanding the neurobiology of resilience and healing

   • Application of relational neuroscience in therapeutic interventions

3. Grounding Skills and Self-Care:

   • Techniques for grounding and regulating emotions

   • Self-awareness practices for caregivers and practitioners

   • Building resilience and preventing burnout

4. Intuition and Discernment:

   • Cultivating spiritual intuition in the healing process

   • Discernment of God's presence and guidance

   • Integrating faith with clinical practice

5. Listening Skills and Presence:

   • Deepening listening skills for empathic understanding

   • Creating a safe space for storytelling and expression

   • Nurturing a compassionate presence in caregiving

6. Understanding Self and Spiritual Practices:

   • Exploring personal narratives and belief systems

   • Integration of spirituality into therapy and healing

   • Spiritual disciplines for personal growth and transformation

Throughout the course, participants will engage in experiential learning activities, case studies, and reflective exercises to deepen their understanding and application of trauma-informed Christian healing principles. By the end of the course, participants will emerge with enhanced skills, renewed spiritual vitality, and a compassionate presence for facilitating healing and restoration.