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Responding to Harm: Trauma, Theology, and Ecclesial Communities

Submitted to Program Units
1: Ecclesial Practices Unit

Sarah Kathleen Johnson, Saint Paul University, Presiding

Abstract for Online Program Book (maximum 150 words)

Inspired by the conference theme of Violence, Nonviolence, and the Margin, these presentations use qualitative research methods to explore how churches and other forms of religious community respond creatively and constructively to violence and practice nonviolence.

Papers

  • Ashley Theuring, Xavier University

    Healing Narratives: A Feminist, Trauma-Informed, Practical Theological Approach to Reimagining Clergy Sexual Abuse

    Abstract

    This paper outlines transformative approach to practical theology, emphasizing the integration of feminist theologies and trauma-informed research to address the clergy sexual abuse crisis within the Catholic Church. The researcher presents a novel practical theological method that combines qualitative data, trauma theory, feminist insights, narrative analysis, and creative writing. Centering on narratives from survivors of Catholic clergy sexual abuse, the study grounds itself in the real-life experiences of those deeply affected by the abuse crisis. It challenges traditional atonement theories and ecclesiological practices through a critical dialogue informed by trauma and feminist critiques, culminating in a theopoetic re-narration of the crucifixion and resurrection narratives. This methodology offers significant contributions to practical theology, proposing a multidimensional model that not only enriches academic study but also aims to transform ecclesial practices and theological narratives, paving the way for a more empathetic, inclusive, and justice-oriented approach.

  • Elizabeth Lee, University of Divinity, Melbourne

    A Methodology to Explore a Trauma-sensitive Ecclesial Practice of Hospitality

    Abstract

    Faith communities frequently espouse to welcome all.  But in a world of violence, this hospitable desire is challenging in communities where people have lived/living experiences of sexual and other trauma.  The forthcoming research will address the failure of safe church approaches to attend to the needs of individuals and communities living with the aftermath of violence and trauma.  This contemplative participative theological methodology aims to creatively and constructively interpret and interrupt current ecclesial practices of hospitality.  Prompted by insights from feminist trauma-sensitive theology, members of a faith community will participate in guided conversations unpacking assumptions and beliefs informing the practice of hospitality.  Through contemplative dialogue circles, the inquiry takes seriously a faith community’s communal experience of hospitality and their experience of God’s unfolding invitations in this time and context, offering an opportunity to articulate a theology that fosters trust, truth, justice, relationality, and the flourishing of all.

  • Eunil David Cho, Boston University
    Shelly Rambo, Boston University
    Eric Brown, Boston University
    Shelby Hall, Boston University

    Trauma-Responsive Congregations: Equipping Thriving Urban Congregations to Respond to Collective Trauma

    Abstract

    “Trauma-Responsive Congregations: Equipping Thriving Urban Congregations to Respond to Collective Trauma” is Boston University School of Theology’s 3-year-long research project funded by the Thriving Congregations Initiative of the Lilly Endowment Inc. The purpose of the program is to assist urban congregations in developing models of trauma-responsive care that are deeply integrated into the mission of their congregations and draw upon the organic resources of congregational life. Based on our community-engaged research with two participating congregations in downtown San Diego, the interdisciplinary research team composed of theologians and psychologists looks at how these urban churches respond to the communal trauma of their congregations, namely in the face of systemic poverty, housing crisis, and immigration. This co-presentation examines how these churches develop trauma-informed toolkits and incorporate these psychological and theological tools into various aspects of their ministries in partnership with theologians, mental health counselors, chaplains, and expressive arts therapists.

Audiovisual Requirements

Resources

LCD Projector and Screen
Play Audio from Laptop Computer
Podium microphone

Other

Standing microphone for audience questions
Accessibility Requirements

Resources

Wheelchair accessible

Full Papers Available

No
Program Unit Options

Session Length

90 Minutes

Schedule Preference

Saturday, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Schedule Preference Other

Sunday
Schedule Info

Monday, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

Tags

#feminism
#practical theology
#theological methodology
#trauma studies
#narratives
#theopoetics
#ecclesial practices
#ecclessial practice
#hospitality
#feminist trauma theology
#nonviolence
#trauma
#violence
# trauma studies
#immigration
#congregational studies
#qualitative research
#urban
#homelessness

Session Identifier

A25-309