Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Honiara (Fides Service) - Solomon Islands is emerging from the recent ethnic tension that has left several persons traumatised by violence, destruction and fear. To heal these psychological wounds and try to re-build confidence, especially among children and young people, the local Church is promoting various programmes of individual and group counselling. Twelve participants at Don Bosco House of Prayer, Kola Ridge, are preparing to be Trainers for the Trauma Support Workers Training Project. The programme commenced on 19th January and will conclude on 27th January, 2004. It has been financed by Caritas Australia and supported by the Archdiocese of Honiara. It aims to train people who will train local community participants as trauma support workers. Listening skills, techniques on questioning and how to read person’s feelings through body language have been much appreciated by the participants. There is the need to encourage and support these people and hence they will be here in Solomon Islands over the next 3 to 4 years as the programme unfolds. “It is hoped that local people will be trained to understand and respond to the needs of those still suffering as a result of the tension” Father Ambrose Pereira sdb, Director Catholic Communications Solomons told Fides. The project is a small step towards the healing of Solomon Islands. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 23/1/2004 lines 27 words 271)
