Preparing the Way Through Training
Associate Pastor Yuri A. participated in a pivotal conference titled Module 2: Healing of Emotional Wounds from November 25 to 28, 2024. Reflecting on the experience, Yuri shared, “It was a wonderful opportunity to deepen my understanding of how to assist people dealing with post-traumatic stress in the context of war. We underwent both theoretical training and practical instruction as part of the program. Additionally, we analyzed each other’s teaching methods, evaluating successes and mistakes.”
Music Mission Kiev’s (MMK) own Irina (Ira) Donchenko served as one of the instructors at the Module 2 training. Yuri added, “We had extensive discussions with Ira about plans and concluded that we want to start a new group together focused on healing emotional wounds. We learned that such groups are most effective when facilitated by two people, especially when aiming to involve more participants in the learning process.”
Building on this experience, Ira and Yuri attended additional training on team building in January, offered by the Institute of Emotional Trauma Healing. Following this, they recruited displaced persons and others in need, and launched a new group dedicated to emotional recovery.
Specialized Training for Psychological Trauma
Providing effective care for servicemen injured on the battlefield requires compassion and proper training. MMK remains committed to this mission by partnering with the Trauma Healing Institute, which enables its staff to gain specialized education in addressing the psychological wounds caused by war.
In early December, Vika R. of MMK also completed an intensive week-long training program titled Healing the Mental Damage Caused by War Trauma. This seminar brought together chaplains, pastors, ministers, and volunteers from across Ukraine to equip them with essential skills for addressing war-related trauma.
Vika praised the curriculum for its well-structured organization and high-quality instruction. Participants absorbed conceptual knowledge, engaged in hands-on exercises, and undertook independent reflection. A standout feature of the training was the opportunity to collaborate, exchange experiences, and discuss practical applications for their newfound knowledge. Successful course completion, including a final exam, earned attendees an official certificate of achievement.
Strengthening Connections and Expanding Impact
The training provided systematic guidance on interacting with individuals affected by mental trauma, teaching participants how to support them effectively while avoiding harm. Beyond the educational aspect, the experience fostered valuable connections among like-minded individuals committed to addressing these critical issues. For Vika, these new relationships inspire future concentrated efforts.
Armed with fresh knowledge and ideas, Vika is eager to put her training into action. With the support of the dedicated network of colleagues she formed during the program, she plans to enhance support for military personnel in hospitals and expand the reach of these vital services. Her passion and determination is playing a key role in encouraging life-changing healing for those most in need.
Although we cannot forecast the future, we are preparing our staff to be able to respond, now and in the future with the needs people have in Ukraine.