MECC supports Lebanese youth spiritually and psychologically

The Theological and Ecumenical Department of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), organized a Trauma Healing and Spiritual Counseling program in partnership and cooperation with the Youth office and the Patriarchal Seminary of the Greek Melkite Catholic Churh - Rabwa. This program targeted a group of young people from different member churches, scout and religious movements. It was launched based on the recommendations made by the youth during two online meetings held by this TED department following the Beirut port explosion, in order to hear their aspirations and suggestions. The program aims at supporting the participants psychologically and spiritually, so that they can in turn, help others the same way.  

The Trauma Healing and Spiritual Counseling program consisted of two training sessions, held on 12 and 19 September 2020, each of which covered several spiritual and psychological topics. Participants were accompanied by specialists from various fields. They attended several sessions focusing on the different types of trauma and their components and how to deal with each one of them. The sessions also included techniques of listening and positive communication, tools to relieve anger and help children and adolescents cope with trauma, as well as practical exercises. In addition, spiritual and psychological sessions were held, during which the youth were able to share the experiences they have lived, whether on a personal level or with others.

It should be noted that the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) works to implement special programs for the youth, as it believes in their leadership role on the ground, in their churches and society.