Churches and TCK Caregivers
Supporting TCKs and their families is a huge privilege! They offer a unique perspective on the world, and particularly on faith and the global church. As TCKs are not bound by one nationality or one culture, they are often able to hold this world lightly and embrace the Truth that the Gospel is for all people and that this world, with its passports and its division will pass away. As Christians, we are all citizens of Heaven first. TCK Christians, and their families, understand this firsthand. Their insight and experience is invaluable for any local church!
That being said, TCKs and their families do require intentional and specific care, whether they are on the mission field, studying abroad, or re-patriating. With the influx of new research on TCKs and Adult TCKs, it is becoming easier for churches and supporting organisations to provide care tailored for TCKs. It's a huge gift to learn how to care for and love others well. The resources belong are to help you and your community support TCKs, and their families, well.
If you are a church local to the Cambridge area and you would like to learn more about TCKs and how to support them in your ministry, or if you would like to provide a Family Debrief for your Missionaries, please contact me directly. I'd love to meet with you and help you develop a strategy for caring for TCKs.
Recommended Resources for Churches
Books
Belonging Everywhere and Nowhere: Insights into Counseling the Globally Mobile - Louis J Bushong
Misunderstood: The Impact of Growing Up Overseas in the 21st Century - Tanya Crossman
Tales of a Diplomat's Daughter - Marie Suazo
Articles & Blogs
Caution and Hope for Missionary Kids - TCK Training
Communicating Across Boundaries
The Missionary Kids Are Not Alright - Christianity Today
Research
Workshops
Biblical Foundations for MK Care - TCK Training
Churches Supporting Missionary Families - TCK Training