Recently published or extended articles

Layers and the role of attachment in mental and social-emotional processing - Part I and - Part II ( 2008-07-26)

Part I discusses the architecture of our brain and proposes a model for our emotional and mental processing abilities. This model takes into account that those abilities have a layered structure and are heavily influenced by our connections with God and others, and the connections within ourselves.

In Part II the model of Part I is applied to the processing of traumatic experiences and difficult emotions.

These observations are of vital relevance for anyone involved in helping people process and/or cope with traumatic experiences.

Abundance of Life and Joy ( 2008-06-13)

on the way out from the valley of pain and depression

In pastoral care I often encounter people who have become aware of some kind of trauma or trouble they experienced in their life. In many cases, this trouble started early and took away a lot of joy and energy from their lives - and often it still continues to steal their joy and energy. I know this also from my own first-hand experience. Trauma and all sorts of trouble - or re-emerging memories about it - can easily rob us of our enthousiasm and energy. As pastoral workers we easily fall into the trap of focussing all attention on...

Living as Children of the King

righteousness, peace and joy: keys to pastoral care and healthy living

Living in the Kingdom of God, as His beloved children - what a mighty privilege, and what a great mandate! Such a great thing requires that we explore the Bible to see what God has in view when He speaks of this. I did such a survey and one theme, actually one verse, spoke to me in particular...

The Aaronic Priestly Blessing: God's Shining and Proud Face

Many times I have seen that scientists discover something, and then one recognizes that God has given us a similar advice in the Bible, thousands of years ago. This too, is the case with the deep meaning of a joyful, affirming and proud face of...

Suggestions welcome!

I encourage you wholeheartedly to send me any of your ideas, comments, experiences or other suggestions that might be of interest to Christian counselors. I may then decide to publish these with your consent, or to amend the material that is already here according to your comments.
Questions on pastoral themes are welcome as well. I may devote a subsequent article to a subject about which I see that several questions exist.
More background info, including some on my goals and approach, you will find on the page with backgrounds of the Accede! initiative.

More information

More information is available from the editor of this site, André H. Roosma, reachable via e-mail: andre.roosma@12accede.nl.