Grace Mwangi, a displaced mother of seven, lost her home, husband, and community when militants attacked her village in Lamu, Kenya. For months, she battled fear and nightmares. 

“I used to see the fire every time I closed my eyes,” Mwangi said. “The loss and grief were so heavy that I couldn’t see myself overcoming them. Now, after sharing my story in the healing sessions, I realized the fire and loss were moments, not my whole life. My hope is knowing that I am still the mother who protects my children, and that love is stronger than fear.” 

Many other Christians living in Lamu, Kenya, have endured unimaginable suffering, including beatings, displacement, the loss of loved ones, and the constant threat of death at the hands of the brutal Somali-based al-Shabab militants.  

Their stories are filled with darkness, fear, and deep trauma as they recall the painful toll of violence and persecution that continues to affect many in the region. 

Amid this suffering, trauma healing sessions have become a vital source of renewal. Grounded in both faith and psychology, these sessions, supported by International Christian Concern (ICC), combine evidence-based counseling with the truth of Scripture. 

These sessions provide a safe environment for persecuted Christians to process their grief, express their pain, and rediscover their identity in Christ. Inspired by Psalm 147:3, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds,” the sessions focus on healing rather than erasing the past. 

The transformation is often gradual but powerful. Participants begin to shift from asking, “Why me?” to “What now?” They start to see life not only through the lens of loss, but as a future that still holds purpose and joy. 

Joseph Nganga suffered greatly for refusing to renounce his faith. 

“They tried to break my body and silence my voice,” he said. “For a time, I thought they succeeded. The healing sessions taught me that my brokenness is not a failure, but a testimony. My hope is that the wounds I bear can help others find healing.” 

David Otunga, a student separated from his family, witnessed horrific violence and struggled with survivor’s guilt. 

To read more news stories, visit the ICC Newsroom. For interviews, please email [email protected]. To support ICC’s work around the world, please give to our Where Most Needed Fund.