Understanding Trauma for Spiritual Communities and Churches (In Person)
What is “Understanding Trauma”?
An early stage, prototype workshop and facilitated dialogue for leaders, facilitators, and core members of spiritual and religious communities who seek to embody trauma-informed values within their leadership and spiritual care practices. Facilitated by Gary Schoenberg, Lynne Vicari-Blecher, Janet Berkowtiz and Michael Shoeman.
Purpose:
To support spiritual communities in becoming spaces of genuine healing, inclusion, and relational power by exploring how trauma—both individual and collective—can shape our behaviors, beliefs, and leadership dynamics. The training is grounded in the understanding that power, when unexamined, can easily replicate systems of harm even in well-intentioned communities. “Understanding Trauma” is not about being “perfect” or “fixing” others—it’s about cultivating safety, awareness, and mutual transformation.
Why This Matters:
Spiritual communities are uniquely positioned to offer sanctuary and meaning in times of social, emotional, and existential upheaval. But when trauma is unacknowledged—within individuals or institutional systems—spiritual spaces can unintentionally mirror the very patterns of exclusion, control, or spiritual bypassing that trauma survivors carry. By becoming trauma-informed, we create the conditions for authentic belonging, deeper listening, and healthier alignment of power and responsibility.
Love Offering: $10
Thurs Sept 18th 7p-9p
* WALK INS are always welcome!
However, to ensure your spot and help avoid any last-minute cancellations due to insufficient sign-ups, we recommend registering online at least three days before the event.
Location: Circle of Miracles, 10 Beulah Road, New Britain, Pa 18901
Give yourself some extra time if you have not been to this address before.
Note: Entrance to Circle of Miracles is the 2nd driveway of the property on Beulah Road. When you turn into the driveway, please go around to the parking lot area that is at the rear of the building. The entrance door is on the lower level of the building.
