The NC and SC Synods, in collaboration with Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR), are excited to offer Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Support (MESS) disaster training for clergy and lay leaders. This program is designed to give church leaders the skills needed to respond to a disaster in both stabilizing (immediate, short-term need following a disaster) and support (long-term need) roles. This FREE Disaster Training for Clergy and Lay Leaders will be held onsite at the Coastal Retreat Center, Isle of Palms (2101 Palm Blvd), SC 29451, May 18-20.

Monday, May 18, from 1-6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 19, from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 20, from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Attendees must be available for all training times to attend. Lodging is provided at the Coastal Retreat Center.

Course Description

MESS training is an interfaith skills-based disaster program designed for clergy, lay leaders, and community responders—people who may encounter and provide care for individuals in crisis or distress from conventional disasters or disasters of everyday life. This skill-based training helps equip the community to care for one another in times of crisis.

Attendees will learn to confidently support individuals facing mental, emotional, and spiritual distress using a 6-Part Protocol rooted in compassion, curiosity, and connection. This highly interactive course equips participants with practical skills for both supportive conversations and crisis stabilization—without the pressure to “fix” or offer quick solutions. No prior experience is required. Participants only need an empathetic spirit and a desire to walk alongside those who are hurting. This training is offered in partnership with MESS Ministries, Inc., the creators of the 6-Part Protocol.

Attendees Will Learn

• To Show Up with a compassionate, guiding presence.
• To Lean In with deep listening, appropriate asking, and further exploration.
• To Listen Out to identify immediate needs and critical concerns.
• To Provide Care through crisis stabilization or supportive acceptance, and empowering action.
• To Kindle Hope by encouraging perseverance and inspiring possibility.
• To Follow Up through planning and/or refer to next-level care.

Course Logistics and Registration

Duration: 2.5 Days (20 hours)
Format: Onsite at the Coastal Retreat Center, Isle of Palms, SC
Cost: As a part of Lutheran Disaster Response’s training support, there is no cost to the community
For Information: Contact Pastor Ruth Ann Sipe

REGISTER HERE!