On this page you will find resources that will help you prepare for a disaster and help you deal with the aftermath of a disaster or tragedy, espcially talking and working with children. If you have additional resources that you think would be particularly helpful, please contact Bro. Andrew Morehead, amorehead@dioet.org.
Preparedness
Preparedness Planning Guide For Congregations and Parishes In the Diocese of East Tennessee
This guide is a replacement of the 2007 manual, “In God’s hands … and Ours, Disaster preparedness and response in the Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee.” Note that it is formatted for two-sided printing.
Guide for Developing High-Quality Emergency Operations Plans for Houses of Worship
This FEMA guide contains guidelines for Active Shooter Situations, as well as sections on overall emergency operations: Planning Principles, Planning Process and Plan Content.
Resources for Use Following a Tragedy
Liturgical and Music Resources
The Eucharistic Prayer at time of Senseless Tragedy (from Text Week): Click here for PDF; click here for Word document
More liturgical resources for use following a tragedy may be found at Text Week: http://www.textweek.com/response/vt.htm
Helping Children Deal with a Tragedy
National Association of School Psychologists on how to talk with children about safety and violence.
The LeaderResources web site offers resources:
How to Talk to Children and Teens about Tragedy
Talking with Children About School Violence
Discussing Hate and Violence with Children
Talking to Children When Hate Makes Headlines
Episcopal Relief & Development has several helpful resources:
Ministering to Children After a Disaster (Grades K-5)
Ministering to Youth After a Disaster (Grades 6-8)
Ministering to Teens After a Disaster (Grades 9-12)
The Sunday After a Disaster (resource was published following Hurricane Sandy, but has relevant information for the Sunday after any disaster)
Additional suggested resources from our parishes include:
Eleven Tips for Responding to Children’s Fears and Concerns Following a Disaster
Several Links from Brene Brown, PhD.
Guide for Parents and Educators – Tips for Talking to Children and Youth After Traumatic Events