Ministry in Disaster Settings: Lessons from the Edge

Few people would doubt the place of the church in caring for those in need. In recent times our society has become increasingly aware of its vulnerability to loss and large-scale devastation through disasters of human and natural origin.

Until this time, very little has been written to address the issues of ministry in such circumstances. Little preparation in relation to trauma ministry has been given to church-based caregivers in their ministry training and little has been passed on from those who have experience to share.

This book, came about through interviews with ministers and others who have shared the grace of God in the most intense of circumstances, specifically in major Australian disasters. It explores the realities of such ministry and its effect on ministry agents and explores the issues of post-traumatic stress and recovery. It brings some important lessons to bear on all ministry agents and those who care for them.