Creating Safe Spaces: How Churches Can Be Trauma Informed with James Mello
In this episode, we explore what it means for a church to be "trauma informed." James Mello, children and youth discipleship leader, joins us to unpack the concept and share practical ways we can make church spaces safe, welcoming, and healing for everyone. We talk about Jesus' model of “connection before correction,” and how real love and understanding can help people process pain rather than avoid it.
James shares the “four Rs” of trauma informed churches: realize, recognize, respond, and resist retraumatization. We discuss actionable steps—from warm greetings to wise leadership policies—that help churches become places of genuine belonging and transformation.
If you’re interested in making your church a more generous, welcoming space for those carrying hidden burdens, this episode is for you.
Timestamps
00:00 — Intro
01:01 — James defines trauma‑informed churches and the impact of trauma.
03:01 — How churches can create safer environments.
09:51 — James introduces the Four R’s.
15:37 — Practical steps and resources.
20:00 — Reflections on trauma in church settings.
11 Feb 2026
Navigating Crisis and Compassion: How Minnesota Adventists Responded to ICE Raids
In this episode, I am joined by Pastor Ray Valenzuela to discuss the impact of recent federal immigration enforcement actions in Minnesota and how local Adventist churches responded.
The conversation explores the challenges faced by immigrant church members, how the church navigated a dual reality of fear and calm, and the ways they mobilized to support families affected by the crisis.
Timestamps:
00:00 "Hope Amid Turmoil"
03:54 Navigating Community Challenges Compassionately
08:39 "Church Unites to Aid Families"
09:53 "Preparing to Support Our Community"
15:50 Dignity and Justice for All
19:39 "Church Support Amid Community Challenges"
23:53 Bringing Hope Through Community Service
25:02 "Faith Amid Adversity"
Resources
The US Immigration Crisis: https://amzn.to/4bPUkV0
Video Discussion on Immigration: https://youtu.be/a8SwQb5txao
10 Feb 2026
Balancing Belief: Adventists on the Defense and Promotion of Religious Freedom
In this thought-provoking podcast, we dive into the importance of religious liberty, a core value for Adventists and a vital principle for any faith community. Joined by Nathaniel Gamble, Public Affairs and Religious Liberty Director for the Rocky Mountain Conference, the conversation unpacks why defending religious freedom—for everyone, not just those who agree with us—reflects God’s own respect for human choice.
Discover how faith, freedom, and love intersect in real-life scenarios, and pick up practical tips on living out these values generously every day.
Timestamps:
00:00 Adventists emphasize prophecy, including Saturday Sabbath observance.
06:05 God interacts with unexpected individuals, respecting freedom.
10:06 Conversations reveal commonality; address differences compassionately.
13:35 Religious liberty discussed; upcoming Sabbath highlighted.
15:24 Adventist vision focuses on salvation, not destruction.
17:51 Podcast could change evangelical approach to kindness.
21:29 Focus on Jesus, not on secondary matters.
25:50 Religious liberty, stewardship, and forgiveness foster understanding.
28:08 Podcast aims to inspire more generous living.
6 Feb 2026
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