Gun Violence, Trauma and God- Learn how TTC city reachers address community violence and trauma while sharing the Gospel
Gun violence, trauma, and God: an unlikely trio that has become inextricably linked for our Cincinnati ministry partners Christen and Matt Jacobs.
In 2018, the couple knew that God was calling them to move into a difficult neighborhood in Cincinnati, Ohio to be salt and light. What they didn’t know was that this type of ministry required a crash course in trauma-informed care. Loving people well in a community that has endured violence meant that they had to take a holistic approach to ministry.
Inspired by Nick Hall’s book, Reset, they approached ministry with the belief that the light of Christ can and will make a difference in community violence and trauma.
The Jacobs enrolled in a Trauma-Informed Care training course. With this background, God has provided unique ministry opportunities at the crossroads of ministry and trauma. Their influence has even spread beyond their neighborhood. Christen presented a paper on trauma and theology to a national audience through Joining Forces for Children. The couple also wrote and presented a children’s book on the topic of safety. Through this work, they share the Good News of Jesus.
Recently, Christen and Matt, along with the Greater Cincinnati Resilience Committee, hosted a community “Stop the Bleed” event where they trained teens and adults how to apply tourniquets. They have learned to balance programs like “Stop the Bleed” with the ultimate message of hope we have in Jesus Christ. “We can provide resources for the community, but when the community is without hope, programming becomes ineffective over time.” Christians are poised to address the community with the ultimate hope in Jesus Christ. When coupled with unique programming, this allows the community to sustain lasting change for the glory of God.
For resources on Trauma-Informed Care, visit https://www.joiningforcesforchildren.org/resources/
To view News Footage for the community “Stop the Bleed” training, visit
To find out how to bring “Stop the Bleed” to your community, visit
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have…” 1 Peter 3:15
