Iraq (MNN) ― Over the past six years, Iraqi children have been suffering severely from relentless bloodshed. Those who are fortunate to survive the violence are found to be suffering from serious stress.
Experts say the negative effect of violence on Iraqi children is pervasive and will severely damage their growth. There are concerns too that these children grow up either deeply scarred or habituated to violence, which carries the potential of altering their adult lives and worldview.
That's why Open Doors launched a new ministry for traumatized children of war. Jerry Dykstra says they felt they had to respond. "If the people are so distressed, they will not be able to function in post-war society."
However, many who work with these children didn't know how to address the trauma. Add to that the stigma of psychological help, and teachers, church workers and others who interact with traumatized children felt like they were fighting a losing battle for the future of Iraq.
They needed training, which is where Open Doors came to their aid. Dykstra says, "Some of the courses that are being taught are child and teenage development, emotional development and the need for children to express and manage emotions and feelings, understanding child trauma, art as therapy, post-traumatic stress disorder and forgiveness and what the Bible teaches about forgiveness."
One participant, named Dema said that after going through the training, "I feel more equipped on how to help children to verbalize problems, how to listen effectively and show love."
It's an investment in the future body of Christ in Iraq. Dykstra says, "It's so vital to get people back on their feet to have a positive outlook in the midst of a land that is again experiencing a high level of violence."
Open Doors USA President/CEO Carl Moeller adds, "Many of these children and youth have known nothing but chaos and violence; some since birth. Some have watched as loved ones have been killed or wounded. Trauma counseling is so important along with spiritual and physical help. Open Doors works to address all areas of their lives."
Open Doors, which is also engaged in the distribution of Bibles and literature, audio recordings, broadcasting and training is also inviting Christians to partner with them to strengthen the ministry.
