A Practical Handbook on Trauma-Informed Chaplaincy

For the Chaplains of St. Francis

Dedication

To all who carry wounds seen and unseen, and to the chaplains of St. Francis who dare to walk with them in love, humility, and courage. May this handbook be a lantern on the road of compassion.

Preface

Trauma is one of the most common and unspoken realities in human life. Nearly everyone you meet has carried some form of it—whether it comes from violence, poverty, rejection, loss, illness, or systemic injustice. For many, these wounds linger in the body and spirit long after the event has passed.

As chaplains of St. Francis, our vocation is not to “fix” people but to walk with them as companions of Christ’s peace. We do not offer easy answers or platitudes. We offer presence, safety, and the reminder that no one suffers alone.

This handbook is written as a practical field guide for chaplains who find themselves face-to-face with trauma in hospitals, prisons, shelters, streets, and sanctuaries. It is not a psychology textbook, nor a replacement for professional therapy. Instead, it is a collection of wisdom, tools, and practices drawn from trauma-informed care, pastoral theology, and the Franciscan Clarean charism of mercy, simplicity, and radical solidarity.

May this guide help you to listen more deeply, to respond more gently, and to minister more wisely. And above all, may it root you in the truth that God’s love is already at work in every wounded life.

Introduction: Trauma is Everywhere, but so is Hope

If you spend even a short time in chaplaincy, you discover something quickly: the people you meet are carrying stories far heavier than they let on. A cheerful face may hide a history of violence. A hardened exterior may guard a heart broken by loss. Trauma is everywhere—it crosses race, gender, age, class, and religion.

But there is also hope everywhere. Trauma is not the end of the story. Human beings are resilient, and grace has a way of shining through the cracks. As chaplains, we are not called to erase pain but to stand in the holy tension where suffering meets hope.

In this ministry, you are a midwife of healing:

You create safe spaces where others can breathe again.

You honor the sacredness of every story without judgment.

You hold silence when words are too heavy to bear.

You remind people that even in their deepest wounds, they are beloved.

This handbook will walk with you through the principles of trauma-informed chaplaincy, offering practical tools, grounding exercises, prayers, and reflection questions. Carry it with humility. Use it as a companion in your ministry. Let it guide you, but never replace the living voice of the Spirit who leads you into each encounter.

In the words of St. Francis:

“We have been called to heal wounds, to unite what has fallen apart, and to bring home those who have lost their way.”

This is the work of trauma-informed chaplaincy.

Chapter 1: Trauma Through a Chaplain’s Eyes

What Is Trauma?

Trauma is not simply “a bad memory.” It is an experience that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope, leaving lasting marks on body, mind, and spirit. It is what happens when life’s storms hit so hard that they shake the very foundation of a person’s being.

Trauma can come in many forms:

Personal trauma: abuse, violence, accidents, illness, or sudden loss.

Collective trauma: war, natural disasters, community violence.

Generational trauma: wounds carried across families and cultures through history (slavery, colonization, systemic oppression).

Systemic trauma: poverty, racism, transphobia, homelessness, and other forms of injustice that wound daily life.

As chaplains, we may never see the full story. But we will see the effects—fear, shame, anger, despair, numbness, or even a complete shut-down of trust.

How Trauma Shows Up in Body, Mind, and Spirit

When you sit with someone, you may notice signs of trauma. They may:

Struggle to make eye contact, or avoid touch.

Speak in fragments, or not at all.

Become restless, hyper-alert, or withdrawn.

Flinch at sounds, smells, or sudden movements.

Carry deep spiritual questions: “Where was God when this happened?” or “Why did this happen to me?”

The brain and body remember trauma. A person may not recall every detail, but their body carries the weight of the memory. As chaplains, our role is not to probe for details but to honor the reality of their pain and create a safe space for them to exist as they are.

What Trauma Needs From Us

People who carry trauma need:

Safety — to know they will not be judged, harmed, or dismissed.

Presence — a calm companion who can sit with their pain without trying to erase it.

Patience — healing unfolds slowly, at the pace of trust.

Respect — every story belongs to the person who lived it, not to us.

Our ministry is not to explain trauma away, but to hold space for survivors to encounter God’s love—even when they cannot name it.

The Franciscan Clarean Lens

St. Francis did not rush past lepers. He stopped, embraced them, and discovered Christ in their wounds. St. Clare did not cling to safety when her community was threatened; she met fear with unwavering presence and trust.

To see trauma through a Franciscan Clarean lens is to recognize:

Every wounded person is an icon of Christ crucified.

Trauma isolates, but companionship restores dignity.

Healing begins when someone knows they are not alone.

When we approach trauma, we do not stand as experts. We stand as sisters and brothers, barefoot on holy ground.

Practical Chaplain Tips

Do not ask for details. If a person wants to share, they will. Your role is to receive, not extract.
Mind your language. Avoid saying “I know how you feel.” Instead, say “I hear you,” or “That sounds very painful.”
Offer choice. Even asking, “Would you like me to sit here with you, or give you space?” restores dignity.
Ground yourself first. Take a slow breath before you enter a room. Trauma survivors can sense your calm—or your anxiety.
Respect silence. Sometimes your quiet presence is the most powerful ministry.

Reflection for Chaplains

Recall a time when you felt powerless, unseen, or overwhelmed. How did it affect you?

What helps you feel safe in moments of fear or vulnerability?

How might you extend that same safety to someone carrying trauma?

Prayer

Christ of the Wounded,
teach me to see with gentle eyes.
When I stand before pain too heavy for words,
let my silence speak Your love.
When I feel helpless,
remind me that my presence is enough.
Grant me the courage of Francis,
the tenderness of Clare,
and the patience of Your Spirit.
Amen.

Chapter 2: Core Commitments of a Trauma-Informed Chaplain

A trauma-informed chaplaincy is less about what you say and more about how you show up. Survivors of trauma often expect the world to be unsafe, unpredictable, or dismissive. Your presence can become a counter-witness to that expectation: steady, kind, and trustworthy.

These commitments are not “techniques” but postures of the heart—Franciscan ways of being that communicate dignity, safety, and compassion.

Safety

Before people can pray, share, or even breathe deeply, they need to feel safe. Safety is the foundation of all trauma-informed ministry.

Physical safety: Respect personal space. Never assume touch (even a hand on the shoulder) is welcome.

Emotional safety: Avoid pressuring someone to speak or “open up.” Let them set the pace.

Spiritual safety: Never use scripture or prayer to shame. Be careful not to suggest trauma was “God’s will.”

🕊 Chaplain’s phrase to carry:

“You’re safe here. I will not rush you.”

Trustworthiness

Many trauma survivors have been betrayed—by family, leaders, or even clergy. Trust takes time, but small acts of honesty build it.

Be consistent: show up when you say you will.

Be transparent: explain what you’re doing (e.g., “I’d like to pray for you—would that be alright?”).

Never make promises you can’t keep.

🕊 Chaplain’s phrase to carry:

“I want to be clear about what I can do, and what I cannot.”

Presence

Your calm presence is often more healing than any words. Trauma survivors may not remember your prayers, but they will remember how they felt with you.

Be comfortable with silence.

Let the person’s story, not your agenda, lead the encounter.

Offer your full attention—no multitasking, no rushing.

🕊 Chaplain’s phrase to carry:

“I am here with you. We can sit together as long as you need.”

Collaboration

Trauma steals power. Healing begins when survivors regain a sense of choice. Invite collaboration in even the smallest ways.

Ask permission before praying, reading scripture, or offering ritual.

Let them decide how long the visit lasts.

Use language that shares power: “Would you like…?” instead of “You should…”

🕊 Chaplain’s phrase to carry:

“Would you like to pray together, or would you prefer silence right now?”

Dignity and Empowerment

Trauma often whispers the lie: “You are powerless. You are worthless.” Your ministry counters that lie with dignity and empowerment.

Affirm strengths you see: “You’ve shown such courage.”

Recognize survival as resilience, not weakness.

Never reduce a person to their trauma—they are more than what happened to them.

🕊 Chaplain’s phrase to carry:

“Your story matters. You are more than your wounds.”

Cultural and Contextual Awareness

Trauma is shaped by culture, history, and identity. For some, wounds come not just from personal events but from systemic injustice.

Respect cultural practices and rituals of healing.

Be mindful of language around race, gender, sexuality, class.

Listen and learn from the communities you serve—never assume you know their story.

🕊 Chaplain’s phrase to carry:

“Help me understand what is most meaningful to you right now.”

The Franciscan Clarean Way

These commitments are not new—they echo the heart of Francis and Clare. Francis met lepers not with fear but with embrace. Clare defended her sisters not with weapons but with steadfast presence before the Blessed Sacrament.

As trauma-informed chaplains, we follow their example:

We make safety sacred.

We embody trust.

We bring peace through presence.

We restore dignity by walking humbly with those who suffer.

Reflection for Chaplains

Which of these commitments comes naturally to you?

Which do you struggle with most, and why?

How can your own prayer life help you embody these postures more deeply?

Prayer

God of Mercy,
make me a vessel of safety and peace.
Teach me to be trustworthy,
to stand in presence without hurry,
to honor the dignity of each soul I meet.
Let me see with the eyes of Francis,
and love with the heart of Clare.
Amen.

Chapter 3: The Chaplain’s Role

A chaplain is not a therapist, social worker, or savior. A chaplain is a companion—a steady presence who brings dignity, compassion, and spiritual care into places of pain. Trauma survivors often carry deep mistrust of authority figures, including clergy. That makes your role delicate, humble, and holy.

You Are Not a Fixer

When you encounter trauma, your instinct may be to help, solve, or heal. But trauma-informed chaplaincy resists the urge to “fix.”

Healing is not a project; it is a journey.

You do not carry the solution—you carry presence.

Sometimes, the greatest gift is saying:

“I can’t take away your pain, but I will not leave you in it alone.”

You Are a Witness

Survivors often feel invisible. Trauma silences voices and buries stories. Your role is to witness:

To listen without rushing.

To honor their story without judgment.

To reflect back the truth of their worth.

🕊 Witnessing phrase:

“I hear what you’re saying, and it matters.”

You Are a Keeper of Boundaries

Healthy boundaries protect both chaplain and care-seeker. Trauma can blur boundaries, but you must hold them firmly and gently.

Never promise absolute secrecy—be honest about limits (especially in cases of harm or danger).

Avoid dual relationships that confuse your role (chaplain first, not rescuer or best friend).

Guard against overextending yourself—burnout helps no one.

🕊 Boundary phrase:

“What you share with me stays in confidence, unless you or someone else is in immediate danger.”

You Are a Spiritual Companion

Many trauma survivors wrestle with God: “Where was God when this happened?” or “Does God still care for me?”

Do not rush to answer. Let the question breathe.

Be willing to sit in mystery.

Offer prayer, scripture, or ritual only if it strengthens dignity—not if it shames.

🕊 Companion phrase:

“It’s okay to bring your anger and questions to God. God can hold them.”

You Are Not Alone in Ministry

Chaplains are part of a larger circle of care. Sometimes, the most pastoral act is knowing when to refer.

Refer to professionals (therapists, doctors, social workers) when needs go beyond your role.

Collaborate—never isolate yourself in ministry.

Trust community—healing is rarely a solo effort.

🕊 Referral phrase:

“I want to honor your pain. I also believe another kind of support might help alongside our conversations. May I connect you with someone?”

You Are a Bearer of Peace

Your Franciscan Clarean identity grounds your ministry in peace, humility, and solidarity. You are not the answer—you are a signpost pointing to the One who is Peace.

Bring calm where there is chaos.

Bring listening where there is silence.

Bring hope where there is despair.

🕊 Peace-bearing phrase:

“May you feel Christ’s peace in this moment, even if only as a small breath of calm.”

Reflection for Chaplains

Do you ever feel the urge to “fix” someone’s trauma? Where does that come from?

Which part of the chaplain’s role (witness, companion, boundary-keeper, peace-bearer) feels most natural to you? Which feels most challenging?

How does your Franciscan Clarean vocation shape the way you hold space for the wounded?

Prayer

God of Presence,
You call me to stand, not as a healer with all the answers,
but as a companion on sacred ground.
Give me courage to witness,
wisdom to hold boundaries,
and humility to know my limits.
Let my presence be Your peace.
Amen.

Chapter 4: Creating Safe and Sacred Space

Before a single word is spoken, people can sense whether they are safe. A chaplain’s ministry begins not with theology, but with atmosphere. Trauma survivors carry radar for danger; they will quickly pick up if you are hurried, judgmental, or intrusive.

Creating safe and sacred space is about embodying calm presence so that someone who has known fear can finally breathe.

The Chaplain’s Entrance

The way you first approach sets the tone.

Knock gently or announce yourself before entering.

Introduce yourself clearly: “I’m Chaplain Thomas with St. Francis. I’m here if you’d like company.”

Respect choice: Ask, “Would you like me to stay a few minutes, or would you prefer privacy?”

🕊 Why this matters: Trauma often robs people of control. Offering choice immediately gives dignity back.

The Power of Language

Your words can either open or close the door to trust.

Avoid: “Everything happens for a reason.”

Avoid: “You should be grateful it wasn’t worse.”

Instead say:

“That sounds really hard.”
“I can’t imagine how heavy this must feel.”
“You are not alone right now.”

🕊 Guideline: Keep your words simple, gentle, and non-intrusive.

Silence as Sacred Space

Trauma survivors often live with noise in their heads—memories, fears, accusations. Silence, when held well, can be healing.

Do not rush to fill every pause.

Allow tears, sighs, or quiet moments without interruption.

Remember: silence with presence is not emptiness—it is holy ground.

Consent in Prayer, Touch, and Ritual

What feels comforting to one person may feel unsafe to another. Always ask.

Prayer: “Would you like me to pray with you, or simply hold silence together?”

Touch: Never assume. Ask before offering a hand, hug, or blessing.

Rituals: Respect whether someone wants scripture, rosary, anointing, or nothing at all.

🕊 Guideline: Consent is not optional—it is sacred.

The Chaplain’s Body Language

Your presence speaks louder than words.

Sit at eye level, not standing over someone.

Keep your posture open and relaxed.

Avoid fidgeting or looking at your watch.

Maintain a calm tone of voice—steady, not hurried.

🕊 Guideline: Your body preaches before your mouth does.

Creating Space in Uncontrollable Environments

Sometimes, you are in places you cannot control—a noisy ER, a crowded shelter, a prison block. You can still create sacred space:

Use your tone and presence to create calm.

Lean into short grounding practices: “Let’s take one slow breath together.”

Focus on your own calm; survivors will mirror your nervous system.

🕊 Guideline: You bring the sanctuary with you, even when there are no walls.

Reflection for Chaplains

When you enter a room, what signals might you be giving—hurried, anxious, calm, peaceful?

How does your presence create (or block) safety for those you serve?

What spiritual practices help you remain a sanctuary of peace in chaotic settings?

Prayer

Holy Spirit,
make me a safe place for weary souls.
Let my presence be a gentle refuge,
my words a balm,
my silence a sanctuary.
In every encounter,
teach me to honor consent,
to embody calm,
and to make room for healing grace.
Amen.

Chapter 5: Practical Tools for Trauma Care

Theory is good, but chaplains need tools they can reach for in the moment. This chapter offers practical, field-tested practices to help ground, stabilize, and support people in trauma. Think of these as tools in your pastoral backpack—ready to pull out when needed.

Grounding Techniques

When someone is overwhelmed, they may dissociate (check out mentally) or feel trapped in panic. Your role is to gently anchor them back to the present.

The 5–4–3–2–1 Method

Invite them to name:

5 things they can see

4 things they can touch

3 things they can hear

2 things they can smell

1 thing they can taste

🕊 Tip: Do this slowly and gently, without pressure. It helps the body remember “I am here, now. I am safe.”

Breath as Prayer

Breath is one of the simplest and most powerful tools.

The Jesus Prayer Breath: Inhale: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God” → Exhale: “have mercy on me.”

Franciscan Breath: Inhale: “Peace.” → Exhale: “And all good.”

Box Breathing: Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4.

🕊 Tip: Model the breathing yourself. People often unconsciously match your rhythm.

Anchoring with Objects

Sometimes a physical object can help ground someone.

A small cross, rosary, or prayer bead to hold.

A stone or wooden token (“This is something solid. You are safe now.”)

A written prayer card they can carry.

🕊 Tip: Always ask permission before placing objects in someone’s hand.

Trauma-Sensitive Prayer

Pray with gentleness and consent.

Use short, simple prayers: “God, be near.”

Avoid suggesting suffering is God’s will.

Invite silence as prayer, not just words.

When in doubt, ask: “Would you like a prayer, or simply a moment of quiet presence?”

🕊 Tip: Presence itself is prayer.

Short Rituals for Sacred Calm

Lighting a Candle (if possible): “This light reminds us that darkness is never the end.”

Blessing with Water: A gentle sign of the cross with holy water (with consent).

Touch-Free Blessing: Raise your hand in blessing without contact.

Scripture Whisper: A single verse (e.g., “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted.”)

🕊 Tip: Trauma survivors may feel overwhelmed by long liturgies—short, gentle rituals work best.

Tools for Group Settings

Chaplains often minister in shelters, clinics, or community gatherings.

Grounding as a Group: Lead everyone in one slow breath together.

Shared Silence: Invite “a minute of quiet” without forcing words.

Collective Blessing: Speak a blessing over the whole group—no one is singled out.

Chaplain’s Emergency Toolkit (Always Carry)

Small pocket cross or rosary

Notebook and pen

Small prayer cards or scripture slips

Anointing oil (if used in your tradition)

Breath prayer instructions written on a card

A calm, centered presence (your most important tool!)

Reflection for Chaplains

Which tool feels most natural for you to use in the field?

Which do you want to practice more before using with others?

How might you adapt these practices for different contexts (hospital, street, prison, home visit)?

Prayer

God of peace,
equip my hands with tools of healing,
my voice with words of calm,
my presence with the strength of gentleness.
Let every breath, every gesture, every prayer
become an instrument of Your mercy.
Amen.

Chapter 6: Boundaries and Self-Care for the Chaplain

A burnt-out chaplain is no good to anyone. Trauma work is holy, but it is also exhausting. You are stepping into pain, grief, fear, and chaos. If you do not set boundaries and practice self-care, you will end up carrying wounds that were never yours to bear.

This chapter is about how to stay faithful to your calling without losing yourself in the process.

Boundaries Are Love, Not Rejection

Some chaplains fear that setting limits is “un-Christlike.” But remember: even Jesus walked away from crowds, rested, and prayed alone. Boundaries are not selfish—they are holy stewardship of your spirit.

Do not promise more than you can give. If you cannot meet someone tomorrow, say so honestly.

Limit availability. You are not the 24/7 crisis hotline. You are a minister, not a machine.

Leave work at work. It is okay to say: “I am off duty, but another chaplain is available.”

🕊 Guideline: A clear “yes” and a clear “no” both serve the Kingdom of God.

Emotional Safety Rules

Do not carry trauma alone. Debrief with a trusted supervisor or peer chaplain.

Do not take home the pain. When you leave, say a short releasing prayer: “Lord, into Your hands I place this soul.”

Do not become the savior. Christ is the healer—you are the companion.

Physical Self-Care

The body keeps the score. Trauma exposure can show up in your own fatigue, headaches, or irritability.

Sleep: Guard it fiercely.

Movement: Walk, stretch, or do gentle exercise daily.

Food: Fuel yourself, don’t just grab coffee and sugar.

Breath: Use grounding techniques for yourself, not just others.

🕊 Guideline: A tired, dehydrated chaplain is a short-fused chaplain.

Spiritual Self-Care

Your well must stay filled.

Daily Prayer Rhythm: Even 5 minutes of silence matters.

Scripture as Nourishment, Not Weapon: Read texts that heal you, not just the ones you use in ministry.

Retreats & Sabbath: Schedule intentional rest times.

Spiritual Director or Confessor: A safe place to pour out your own burdens.

Knowing Your Limits

Trauma work can trigger your own unhealed wounds. Pay attention.

If you feel flooded, step back.

If a situation overwhelms you, ask another chaplain to step in.

If old pain is stirred up, seek counseling for yourself.

🕊 Guideline: You cannot pour from an empty—or cracked—cup.

Warning Signs of Burnout or Compassion Fatigue

Irritability or cynicism

Numbness toward others’ pain

Avoiding calls or visits

Trouble sleeping or constant fatigue

Increased use of food, alcohol, or distractions

🕊 Tip: These are signals, not failures. When you see them, pause and replenish.

Building a Support System

Chaplains need chaplains, too.

Peer support groups with other ministers.

Supervisors who check in regularly.

Friends who treat you like a human being, not a chaplain on duty.

A rhythm of confession, accountability, and grace.

Reflection for Chaplains

How do I currently care for my own body, mind, and soul?

Which boundary feels hardest for me to set?

Who supports me when I am weary?

Prayer

Christ,
You carried the weight of the world,
yet You also rested, prayed, and withdrew.
Teach me holy limits.
Give me courage to say “no” when needed,
wisdom to release what is not mine,
and grace to care for myself
so that I may continue to care for others.
Amen.

Chapter 7: Ministering in Crisis Situations

Crisis can strike suddenly: a car accident, a house fire, a suicide attempt, a violent confrontation, or a sudden loss in a community. These moments are charged with fear, confusion, and grief. As a chaplain, you are called to bring calm, presence, and hope—not quick fixes.

Understanding Crisis from a Trauma Perspective

A crisis is any event that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope.

Trauma may be triggered even if the person has experienced prior events—sometimes a small reminder can feel catastrophic.

People in crisis need stability before solutions: your first job is grounding, not advice.

The Chaplain’s Immediate Tasks

When entering a crisis situation:

Assess Safety First

Are you physically safe?

Are the people around you safe?

If there is immediate danger, call professionals first (police, medical staff, fire, or social workers).

Introduce Yourself Calmly

“I’m Chaplain Maria with St. Francis. I’m here to be with you for a few moments if you’d like.”

Offer Presence and Grounding

Guide slow breaths, gentle awareness of surroundings, or short prayers if appropriate.

Keep your tone calm and steady. Your nervous system sets the tone for theirs.

Provide Choice and Control

Ask what they want: “Do you want me to stay, or would you like some space?”

Offer options, even small ones: a seat, a blanket, water, or silence.

Supporting People Experiencing Shock or Panic

Signs may include trembling, pacing, dissociation, or uncontrolled crying.

Grounding phrases:

“You are safe right now.”

“We are here together.”

Simple touch only with consent (hand on arm, holding a hand).

Short rituals: a prayer, a blessing, or reading a calming verse.

Responding to Suicide Risk

Always take talk of self-harm seriously.

Ask gently: “Are you thinking of ending your life?”

Stay calm; listen without judgment.

Never promise secrecy—call trained professionals if the person is in immediate danger.

🕊 Tip: Your role is support, presence, and referral. You are not expected to provide therapy.

Working in High-Stress Environments

Whether in ERs, shelters, prisons, or disaster zones:

Step into calm: Your body and voice communicate safety.

Set small boundaries: Clear introductions, explain what you can offer.

Use brief grounding exercises: even 30 seconds of mindful breathing can stabilize panic.

Check in afterward: Debrief with your team or supervisor to maintain your own wellbeing.

Spiritual Care During Crisis

Offer prayer or scripture only if desired by the person.

Avoid over-spiritualizing: “God sent this to teach you” can retraumatize.

Invite lament: allowing grief, anger, and fear to be expressed is sacred.

🕊 Sample prayer for crisis:
God of mercy,
be here with this one in the chaos.
Bring calm where there is panic,
comfort where there is grief,
and hope where there is despair.
Amen.

Chaplain Self-Care After Crisis

Take a moment to breathe, even 60 seconds, before moving on.

Debrief with a peer chaplain or supervisor.

Reflect on what felt challenging and what helped the person.

Remember: leaving the trauma behind is not abandonment—it is survival and wisdom.

Reflection for Chaplains

How do I respond when someone is panicked or dissociating?

Do I feel tempted to “fix” the situation? How can I resist that impulse?

What grounding practices feel most natural for me to lead under pressure?

Chapter 8: Trauma and Faith

Trauma often leaves wounds in both body and spirit. Many people carry not only the scars of violence, loss, or neglect but also a spiritual ache: feelings of abandonment, anger at God, or confusion about their faith. Chaplains meet these spiritual wounds alongside physical or emotional ones.

Recognizing Spiritual Trauma

Spiritual trauma can arise from:

Religious abuse or coercion: being shamed, judged, or punished in the name of faith.

Crisis of belief: questioning God’s presence after tragedy.

Loss of community: estrangement from faith groups or family.

Moral injury: guilt or shame from actions they were forced or felt compelled to take.

Signs may include: anger at God, withdrawal from prayer or worship, statements like “God has abandoned me”, or self-condemnation.

Holding Space for Faith Questions

People may bring heavy questions, doubt, or anger. As chaplains:

Listen without judgment. Avoid trying to provide quick theological answers.

Validate feelings: “It’s understandable to feel anger or doubt.”

Sit with silence: Sometimes questions are more important than answers.

Offer accompaniment, not correction: You are a companion, not a theologian trying to fix their faith.

🕊 Tip: The question “Where was God in all this?” is sacred; don’t rush to answer it.

Healing Rituals and Practices

Ritual can anchor spiritual healing:

Lamentation: Encourage prayers or spoken grief. “It’s okay to cry out to God.”

Blessing and anointing: Gentle, consented gestures remind survivors of sacred presence.

Light and symbols: Candles, stones, or prayer beads can provide tangible anchors.

Silence and meditation: Creating stillness allows reflection and inner calm.

🕊 Tip: Keep rituals short and gentle—trauma survivors may be overwhelmed by prolonged ceremonies.

Addressing Religious Trauma

For those harmed by religion itself:

Avoid dogma or judgment: Do not insist they adopt your interpretation.

Empathize with their pain: “I’m so sorry this happened to you in the name of faith.”

Offer spiritual tools cautiously: Let them choose prayer, scripture, or ritual.

Normalize questioning: Doubt is part of healthy spiritual recovery.

Fostering Hope and Resilience

Faith can be a source of comfort even after trauma. Chaplains can help survivors:

Reconnect with spiritual practices at their own pace.

See God as companion rather than punisher.

Discover meaning in suffering without minimizing pain.

Celebrate small steps of spiritual engagement—prayer, gratitude, or participation in ritual.

🕊 Tip: Healing is relational. Show that God’s love is present in your steady, compassionate presence.

Reflection for Chaplains

How do I respond to someone angry at God or their faith?

Do I feel the urge to “correct” spiritual doubts? How can I resist?

What rituals or prayers can I offer that honor dignity and consent?

Prayer

God of mercy,
meet those who feel abandoned.
Let Your presence be known not as punishment,
but as companionship, patience, and healing.
Grant me the wisdom to hold space for doubt,
the courage to accompany without judgment,
and the grace to remind all of Your enduring love.
Amen.

Chapter 9: Long-Term Healing and Growth

Trauma does not end with a single encounter. Healing is often slow, non-linear, and ongoing. Chaplains are companions on that journey, helping individuals and communities move from survival to resilience, and from despair to hope.

Understanding the Arc of Healing

Safety first: Without a sense of safety, growth is impossible.

Stabilization: Grounding, emotional regulation, and small routines build trust in the present.

Processing: Over time, people may explore and integrate traumatic experiences.

Reconnection: Healing often involves reconnecting with community, spirituality, and purpose.

🕊 Tip: Progress is rarely linear. Celebrate small steps; do not rush the timeline.

Building Resilience

Resilience is not about “toughness” or forgetting pain—it is about adapting and growing in the face of trauma. Chaplains can support resilience by:

Affirming strengths and courage survivors already display.

Encouraging ritual and routine for stability.

Supporting healthy connections with family, friends, and faith communities.

Offering hope-oriented reflections, e.g., emphasizing small daily victories.

Community as Healing

Long-term recovery thrives in community:

Encourage participation in supportive groups or gatherings.

Facilitate peer-to-peer connections where survivors witness each other’s growth.

Model compassionate community through your own presence, creating a culture of trust.

🕊 Tip: Healing in isolation can stall. Even brief communal experiences—shared prayer, listening circles, or service—can strengthen recovery.

Spiritual Growth and Meaning-Making

Trauma often challenges belief and identity, but it can also open pathways to deep spiritual insight. Chaplains can help survivors:

Explore personal meaning in experiences without minimizing suffering.

Rediscover spiritual practices at their own pace.

Recognize moments of grace, even amid hardship.

Use creative practices (writing, art, ritual) to express and integrate experiences.

Self-Care for Survivors

Long-term healing includes empowering survivors to care for themselves:

Teach grounding, mindfulness, or breath practices for daily use.

Encourage gentle physical activity and restorative sleep routines.

Support boundaries in relationships, work, and spiritual practice.

🕊 Tip: Healing is holistic—mind, body, and spirit are intertwined.

Chaplain’s Role in Long-Term Support

Consistency matters: Regular check-ins, visits, or prayers demonstrate reliability.

Celebrate milestones: Even small achievements (a smile, a calm breath, a reconnected friendship) signal growth.

Know when to refer: Encourage professional therapy or specialized support when needed.

Maintain your own boundaries: Long-term engagement requires sustainable energy and care for yourself.

Reflection for Chaplains

How do I measure success in long-term healing?

What strategies help survivors integrate trauma without feeling overwhelmed?

How can I help cultivate a sense of meaning, hope, and resilience?

Prayer

God of restoration,
walk with those carrying deep wounds.
Guide them toward resilience,
strengthen their connections,
and renew their hope.
Help me, as a chaplain,
to witness their growth,
to celebrate their courage,
and to honor their pace along the path of healing.
Amen.

Chapter 10: Working with Families and Support Networks

Healing from trauma rarely happens in isolation. Families, friends, and community networks are vital parts of recovery, but they can also be sources of stress or re-traumatization. Chaplains serve as guides, facilitators, and companions in navigating these relationships.

Understanding Family Dynamics

Trauma often affects the whole system, not just the individual.

Patterns of communication, control, or avoidance may reflect coping strategies learned over generations.

Some family members may be supportive, while others may unintentionally retraumatize.

🕊 Tip: Observe without judgment. Focus on strengths and possibilities, not only deficits.

Facilitating Safe Conversations

Encourage listening first, speaking second. Teach family members to validate experiences rather than minimize them.

Set boundaries and ground rules: one person speaks at a time, no blaming language, and respect for physical/emotional space.

Provide structured exercises:

Each person shares one strength of another family member.

Use reflective listening: “I hear that you are feeling… because…”

🕊 Tip: Even short, structured conversations can break cycles of blame and isolation.

Supporting Caregivers

Caregivers may carry secondary trauma or burnout.

Offer grounding techniques, short prayers, and reflective questions to restore their balance.

Validate their efforts and struggles: “Your presence matters, even when it feels exhausting.”

Encouraging Community Support

Identify networks outside the family—friends, faith groups, support circles—that can provide safety and belonging.

Facilitate introductions or invite survivors to community gatherings at their pace.

Encourage participation in service-oriented activities: helping others can foster purpose and empowerment.

🕊 Tip: Community is a buffer against isolation, a protective factor for long-term resilience.

Spiritual Support in Relationships

Encourage family or support networks to pray or reflect together, with consent.

Help families distinguish compassionate presence from judgment or theological debate.

Model gentle conflict resolution rooted in Franciscan Clarean values: humility, patience, and reconciliation.

When Families Are Part of the Trauma

Some survivors experience harm within their own families. Chaplains must hold firm: safety comes first.

Support survivors in creating healthy boundaries, even if it means physical or emotional distance.

Provide referrals for counseling or safe spaces.

Encourage healing relationships outside of harmful networks while honoring the survivor’s autonomy.

Reflection for Chaplains

How do I balance supporting both the survivor and their family or network?

What practices help families witness and honor trauma without judgment or shame?

How can I facilitate reconnection while prioritizing safety and consent?

Prayer

God of community,
guide families and friends in the ways of love and patience.
Teach us to honor each person’s boundaries,
to listen without judgment,
and to nurture connection without harm.
Help me, as a chaplain,
to be a gentle guide for healing relationships
and a witness to Your restorative presence.
Amen.

Chapter 11: Special Populations and Contexts

Trauma presents differently depending on life experiences, identity, and context. Chaplains must be aware of these nuances and adapt care to meet unique needs. Respect, humility, and cultural awareness are essential.

Veterans and First Responders

Common challenges: PTSD, moral injury, survivor’s guilt, hypervigilance.

Chaplain role:

Listen for experiences without judgment.

Validate courage and resilience.

Use grounding exercises and breath work to manage triggers.

Offer ritual or blessing for release and closure.

🕊 Tip: Avoid clichés like “You just need to move on.” Respect the ongoing nature of service-related trauma.

Survivors of Abuse

Challenges: Trust issues, fear of authority, hypervigilance, body-based triggers.

Chaplain role:

Prioritize safety and consent in every interaction.

Avoid forced disclosure—let survivors share at their own pace.

Offer grounding, gentle rituals, and simple prayers.

Reinforce dignity and personal boundaries consistently.

🕊 Tip: Survivors may need repeated reassurance that you are trustworthy.

LGBTQ+ Individuals

Challenges: Family rejection, discrimination, spiritual trauma from religious contexts.

Chaplain role:

Affirm identity and lived experience.

Avoid language that implies “correction” or judgment.

Be aware of intersecting trauma (racism, poverty, violence).

Support reconnection with faith in ways that honor autonomy.

🕊 Tip: Your role is witness, ally, and guide—not gatekeeper of faith.

Children and Adolescents

Challenges: Limited language to express trauma, dependence on caregivers, rapid emotional shifts.

Chaplain role:

Use simple, concrete language.

Offer age-appropriate grounding tools (breathing exercises, coloring, guided imagery).

Collaborate with caregivers or social workers.

Create safety through routine and predictability.

Elderly or Chronically Ill Individuals

Challenges: Loss, grief, isolation, medical trauma, diminished mobility.

Chaplain role:

Sit at eye level; respect physical limitations.

Offer prayer, listening, or simple rituals for comfort and dignity.

Validate accumulated life experiences and grief.

Refugees, Immigrants, and Marginalized Communities

Challenges: Cultural dislocation, language barriers, intergenerational trauma, systemic oppression.

Chaplain role:

Practice cultural humility; learn about community norms and practices.

Use interpreters when needed; be sensitive to trauma around disclosure.

Advocate for justice and access to support systems when appropriate.

🕊 Tip: Trauma-informed care requires flexibility, patience, and deep respect for cultural context.

Reflection for Chaplains

Which populations do I feel most prepared to serve? Least prepared?

How can I continue learning about the experiences and needs of diverse communities?

What personal biases might affect my ability to provide trauma-informed care?

Prayer

God of all peoples,
grant me wisdom to meet each individual in their full humanity.
Teach me to honor diverse experiences,
to hold space without judgment,
and to accompany all who suffer with humility and love.
Amen.

Chapter 12: Training, Supervision, and Continuing Education

Trauma-informed chaplaincy is both a calling and a practice. It requires continuous learning, reflection, and accountability. Even the most experienced chaplains must regularly check themselves, update skills, and seek guidance.

Initial and Ongoing Training

Foundational knowledge: Understanding trauma, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed principles.

Practical skill-building: Grounding exercises, active listening, and spiritual accompaniment.

Special populations: Training in cultural humility, LGBTQ+ issues, veterans’ care, child and elder trauma, and systemic oppression.

Regular refreshers: Trauma research evolves; revisit core principles and techniques periodically.

🕊 Tip: Learning never stops. Staying curious protects both chaplains and those they serve.

Supervision and Mentorship

Supervision: Regular meetings with experienced chaplains or clinical supervisors provide feedback, accountability, and support.

Mentorship: Experienced chaplains can model effective presence, boundaries, and self-care.

Debriefing: After intense encounters, review what went well, what was challenging, and what could improve.

🕊 Tip: Debriefing is essential; trauma exposure affects chaplains as well.

Continuing Education

Attend workshops, webinars, and courses in trauma care, pastoral counseling, or relevant specialties.

Read literature from progressive and inclusive theological and psychological perspectives.

Engage in peer learning: case studies, discussion groups, or journal clubs.

Keep up with research from organizations such as the Westar Institute, ACEs studies, and trauma-informed ministries.

Reflective Practice

Maintain a journal or log of encounters (confidentially, anonymized) to identify patterns, successes, and challenges.

Ask reflective questions:

Did I embody presence and safety today?

Did I hold appropriate boundaries?

Did I honor the dignity and autonomy of the person I served?

Practice personal spiritual reflection, prayer, or meditation to remain centered.

Self-Care as Professional Responsibility

Supervision and education are not just professional—they are ethical. Burnout, compassion fatigue, or secondary trauma reduces effectiveness.

Regularly evaluate your own mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

Use peer networks, professional counseling, retreats, and sabbath rhythms to maintain resilience.

🕊 Tip: Being well yourself is part of being effective in ministry.

Accountability and Ethics

Uphold confidentiality, consent, and ethical boundaries.

Engage in honest self-assessment and seek feedback.

Report any concerns about unsafe practices or systemic issues in the organizations you serve.

Reflection for Chaplains

How often do I seek supervision or mentoring?

What continuing education opportunities can strengthen my practice?

Am I regularly reflecting on my effectiveness, presence, and boundaries?

Prayer

God of wisdom,
guide me in my learning and growth.
Give me humility to seek guidance,
courage to face my own limitations,
and discernment to continue learning.
May my ongoing education and reflection
serve the healing of those I accompany,
and the integrity of the ministry You have entrusted to me.
Amen.

Closing: Walking the Sacred Path Together

Trauma-informed chaplaincy is a journey, not a destination. It is a calling to walk with others in their pain, fear, and grief, while holding the steady light of compassion, dignity, and hope. You do not fix, you do not rescue—you accompany. You bear witness. You bring peace where there is chaos.

Key Reminders for Chaplains

Presence over performance: Your calm, compassionate presence is often the greatest gift.

Boundaries are sacred: Protecting your own spirit allows you to serve sustainably.

Consent and choice are essential: Honor autonomy in every prayer, ritual, or gesture.

Grounding matters: Both for survivors and for you. Breath, body, and attention anchor moments of crisis.

Reflection and growth: Supervision, continuing education, and prayer keep you centered and effective.

Community is healing: Survivors, families, peers, and faith networks all play a role in recovery.

A Final Prayer for Chaplains

God of mercy and presence,
thank You for calling us to walk with those who suffer.
Grant us steady hearts, gentle words,
and courage to remain faithful in the face of pain.
Help us honor the dignity of every soul,
maintain our own health and spirit,
and be vessels of Your healing love.
Amen.

Parting Reflection

Every encounter is sacred. Every presence is a ministry.

Your work may go unseen, your prayers may feel small—but every act of presence is holy.

Remember, you do not carry the weight alone—God, your faith, and your community accompany you.

Resources for Chaplains

Books and References

The Body Keeps the Score – Bessel van der Kolk

Trauma Stewardship – Laura van Dernoot Lipsky

The Franciscan Way – Richard Rohr

Pastoral Care in Trauma – Various progressive theological sources

Westar Institute publications on trauma-informed ministry

Websites and Online Learning

ACEs Connection: https://www.acesconnection.com

Trauma-Informed Care Implementation Center: https://www.traumainformedcare.chcs.org

Progressive Christian resources on spiritual care and inclusive ministry

Hotlines and Crisis Resources

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): 988

Local crisis and domestic violence support numbers

LGBTQ+ support networks (e.g., The Trevor Project)

Victim services and social workers in your area

Acknowledgments

This handbook draws on the collective wisdom of trauma-informed care practitioners, progressive theologians, and the lived experiences of survivors. Special gratitude is offered to:

Chaplains and ministers who embody presence and courage daily

Survivors who courageously share their stories

The Franciscan Clarean community, whose spirit of humility and service inspires every page

Using This Handbook

This manual is designed to be both a study guide and a practical reference.

Chaplains are encouraged to carry key sections or quick-reference sheets into the field.

Reflective exercises, prayers, and grounding practices can be adapted to specific contexts and populations.

Further Study and Continuing Education

Participate in trauma-informed care workshops, webinars, and retreats.

Maintain regular supervision and mentorship for accountability and growth.

Explore cultural, social, and spiritual dimensions of trauma for inclusive and compassionate ministry.

Notes and References

All biblical and spiritual references in this handbook are used in a progressive, trauma-informed context, emphasizing dignity, compassion, and the healing presence of God.

Scripture passages and prayers are adapted to promote inclusivity, consent, and emotional safety.

Where clinical guidance is suggested, chaplains are encouraged to collaborate with licensed professionals as needed.

About the Author

Sister Abigail Hester is a Franciscan Clarean nun and trauma-informed chaplain who has spent decades walking alongside individuals and communities in times of grief, loss, and spiritual struggle. Blending progressive Christian theology, Franciscan wisdom, and trauma-aware care, she emphasizes presence, dignity, and compassion for all people, honoring each person’s story and boundaries while offering prayer, ritual, and grounding practices as tools for healing.

She is the founder of the Order of Franciscan Clareans, a progressive community rooted in humility, compassion, and love for all creation. In addition to training chaplains, volunteers, and lay ministers in holistic, trauma-informed pastoral care, Sister Abigail also writes, prays, and creates sacred spaces for contemplation, always guided by the Franciscan call to justice and peace.