How to Provide Spiritual and Emotional Care in the Wake of Natural Disasters

When people think of disasters like hurricanes, they often recount the physical damages caused. However, disasters also cause significant spiritual, psychological, and emotional distress.

If you are a church leader from one of the affected communities you will likely be called upon to help respond to the needs left behind by this massive storm.

Walking alongside those who are suffering is part and parcel of every church leader’s calling. But when major disasters like Hurricane Harvey strike, even some of the most seasoned church leaders aren’t sure how to provide effective spiritual and emotional care.

Here are some tried-and-true ways to help survivors.

What Not to Say

Disasters can shake our most sacred beliefs and lead to questions such as, “Where was God in all of this?” It’s difficult to find the “right” words when reaching out and caring for others ...