A research and training community for Christian health ministry
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A research and training community for Christian health ministry
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Becoming Collaboratively Curious
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A few years ago, our Executive Director, Jason Paltzer, started thinking about how a church-based ministry, led by Kingdom Workers, with a goal of supporting survivors of abuse could better partner with local domestic violence shelters. Rather than brainstorm ideas or comparing the program to other organizations, he turned to research—connecting with a faculty member at Wisconsin Lutheran College and enlisting the help of two undergraduate students interested in learning more about the research process.
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After interviewing several domestic violence shelter staff members and analyzing the data, the team identified some practical advice for any faith-based program that supports survivors of domestic violence. Research participants highlighted some specific services that are difficult to provide, including safe housing, access to mental health services, and finding a personal advocate for the survivor. They also noted key partnership considerations like setting boundaries, welcoming all survivors regardless of situation or background, and the value of having a formal agreement in place between organizations. Today, these specific actions are being considered by Kingdom Workers, the findings have been shared with other faith-based organizations, and a manuscript is in progress to publish the results in a peer-reviewed medical journal for social workers.
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This project also helped shape the development of the Meros Center. It served as a model for how to address other ministry questions—being collaboratively curious by connecting the faith community with the academic community to find answers. Additionally, it reinforced the value of including students which helps projects succeed and provides a valuable research experience in a faith-based setting for those emerging scholars and practitioners. Completed projects like this one have also been an inspiration for the many others still in progress as we navigate challenges and set benchmarks for budgets and timelines.
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We appreciate your partnership with the Meros Center whether through your financial gifts, prayers, or volunteer efforts. It’s because of your individual contributions that we are able to help ministries like those supporting survivors of abuse become even more effective sharing Jesus in their community.
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Coming Up: Our partnership visits to the Caribbean, Central, and South America are scheduled, and we begin July 2. By forging relationships with local people and organizations, we will support and increase the effectiveness of their health ministry efforts. Please pray for safe travel and blessings for all who live in His kingdom.
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How to become an effective practitioner of Christian Health Ministry
Our next Community Health Ministry training cohort starts the week of August 26, 2024. Registration is open but there are only 4 seats left. Now is the time to sign up. For more information, please email us or click below for more information.
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We are grateful for your continual support.
Each opportunity to partner and minister to the marginalized through our research costs between $5,000-$30,000. Our 2024 goal is $100,000. We are grateful for and pray God continues to bless all of you, and ask you to pray for and support our mission as the Lord leads your heart.
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connect@meroscenter.org
(414) 443-8945
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