Barna data show that pastors across the U.S. feel a sense of responsibility when it comes to caring for their church members during crisis. In a year that has been marked by uncertainty, distance and trauma, pastors are likely facing even greater pressure to support and guide their people\u2014perhaps while their own mental and emotional well-being are also suffering.<\/p>\n
As a difficult year comes to a close and a challenging holiday season continues, let\u2019s examine findings from three recent Barna studies that could help pastors as they think through caring for their congregants\u2014and themselves\u2014during crisis.<\/p>\n
Most pastors agree that trauma is an issue the Church should address, but many church leaders have had little to no training in the way of trauma care. Data from Barna\u2019s recent report created in partnership with American Bible Society\u2014Trauma in America<\/em><\/a>\u2014show that the majority of Protestant pastors (73%) indicates they feel \u201csomewhat\u201d equipped<\/a> to help someone in their congregation who may be dealing with significant trauma. Only one in seven (15%) feels \u201cvery\u201d well-equipped, while 12 percent do not feel equipped at all.<\/p>\n Read it all<\/a>.<\/p>\n According to this @BarnaGroup<\/a> study, only 15% of Protestant pastors feel \u201cvery\u201d well-equipped to help someone dealing with significant trauma. Grateful to my friend, @davidkinnaman<\/a>, and the Barna team for helping us understand the church today. https:\/\/t.co\/wD0VCXnXLA<\/a><\/p>\n — Kara Powell (@KPowellFYI) December 16, 2020<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n \n