Rev. Dr. Stephen Robinson serves as the National Disaster Recovery Officer for the Uniting Church. With years of experience in crisis and disaster ministry, he has deeply reflected on how trauma affects ministers and faith communities, often revealing a lack of preparedness to respond effectively and manage the aftermath.
Supported by a Churchill Fellowship, Stephen conducted research and interviewed faith leaders about their responses to violent attacks on houses of worship. His study included the Christchurch Mosque mass shooting, the assassination of a British MP at a UK Methodist Church, and other significant incidents involving synagogues and churches. These events have profoundly impacted the lives of those involved.
Drawing from the lessons learned and the ongoing challenges, Stephen will delve into the critical dynamics that unfold when a community and congregation face a crisis. He will discuss who and what resources will be available to support ministers and leaders during these times of need and how we can better equip ourselves to respond and recover in the face of threats and loss.
This is an essential event you won't want to miss!