On December 2-3, 2024, Ukrainian Evangelical Theological Seminary held its annual Soul and Word Conference, which provides an invaluable platform for professional development and personal enrichment of its participants.
It goes without saying that we are living in challenging times marked by the reality of war, where trauma has become a pervasive experience for many. These challenges offer an opportunity for the church to bring hope, healing, and restoration.
Participants of the Soul and Word conference represented a wide range of fields, including counselors, community builders, social workers, ministry leaders, pastors, and other individuals dedicated to serving those impacted by traumatic experiences. Together, they shared insights, exchanged best practices, and explored ways to bring comfort and renewal to those in need.
The conference provided a dynamic space for discussing pressing issues, debunking myths, verifying facts, and uncovering deeper insights into some of the most significant challenges we face today such as neurobiological mechanisms of trauma, autism in modern society, self-care and resilience, trauma of family separation, pastoral care for military personnel and their families, etc.
This comprehensive approach allowed participants to gain practical tools and a deeper understanding of how to support individuals and communities affected by trauma and crisis. The following discussions challenged stereotypes, clarified truths, and provided valuable insights into the realities of trauma and recovery.
It was a meaningful time of shared learning, cooperation, and mutual support—focused on discovering practical ways to help others. In these challenging times of war, such connection and growth are more essential than ever.