Small Steps Toward Healing

On June 22, 2025, a bombing at Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Damascus, shook a Christian community already carrying years of hardship from war. Fear, grief, anxiety, and a loss of security continues to shape daily life. 

For children especially, the experience of losing a loved one can leave wounds that are difficult to express in words. That is why Shai Fund launched a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) project to help children and caregivers affected by the attack begin the process of healing. 

Through structured psychosocial activities, children have opportunities to express emotions, reconnect with others, and regain a sense of safety and belonging. Arts and theater activities give children ways to process difficult experiences while building confidence and positive social connections. 

Reconnecting After Loss 

Tala and Rami know this pain firsthand. The bombing took the life of their father, leaving both children to navigate a profound loss at a critical stage of their development. 

In the aftermath, they became less engaged with those around them. They withdrew from social activities and largely kept to a small, familiar circle. Building new relationships and openly expressing their feelings became more difficult. 

For children grieving the loss of a parent, the effects can extend far beyond the initial trauma. The loss can alter their sense of safety and make ordinary interactions feel difficult or unfamiliar. 

Through the Art and Peace Project, Tala and Rami were given a safe and supportive space to begin reconnecting with others. 

They participated in artistic, recreational, and group activities alongside other children affected by the bombing. Through creativity and structured activities, they had opportunities to express themselves, spend time with their peers, and experience moments of enjoyment and connection. 

Over time, facilitators began to see a change. 

Both children became more involved in activities, interacted more with other participants, and showed a greater willingness to communicate and participate in group exercises.

The loss of their father remains an irreplaceable reality. Nothing can undo that loss. But the project has helped Tala and Rami experience a place where they could once again experience belonging. 

Healing Through Community 

Recovery from trauma does not happen in isolation. For families affected by the bombing, being together in a supportive environment provides an opportunity to rebuild relationships and restore a sense of community. 

Caregivers are also an essential part of the healing process. Support sessions help them better understand and respond to the emotional needs of children who have experienced trauma, while individual follow-up is provided when additional support is needed.  

For children like Tala and Rami, healing will take time. Their loss cannot be erased, and the pain of losing a father cannot be replaced. But with a safe place to gather and supportive adults around them, children can begin to find their footing again. 

Shai Fund is committed to standing with Syria's Christian communities through the moments of crisis and the long road of recovery that follows.