“Without reflection, we go blindly on our way, creating more unintended consequences, and failing to achieve anything useful.”

Margaret J. Wheatley, American Author

Debriefing is a relational and intentional process in which a person is able to share their story, reflect on it, see the impact of it, make meaning of it, and take the healthy next steps. Debriefing allows a person to process their experience, feel the emotions, and address any important issues that might be there. It is a safe place for a person to be seen, heard, and known without the fear of judgment.

In our debriefing we desire a person to experience rest, reflection, reorientation, renewal, and reengagement. This is loosely modeled after Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28-29.

Rest - Debriefing works best when we are able to unplug from normal life. For those in ministry, rest is often overlooked.

Reflect - What has happened? What emotions are present? What thoughts do you have about what happened? How has it impacted you?

Reorient - Where is God in all of this? How does he speak into your situation? What assumptions do you have about Him?

Renew - The God of grace meets you in your weakness with his tailor-made mercies.

Re-engage - What are the next best steps knowing what you know now?

A global worker may seek out debriefing for any number of reasons:

A difficult circumstance or season in ministry

A transition to a new field or new position

Leaving the field and retuning home

A crisis or trauma

Relational conflict

A season of uncertainty