Theology and Trauma: Spiritual Hurt and the Need for Trauma-Informed Churches

In this episode, we talk with Preston Hill, assistant professor of integrative theology at Richmont Graduate University, about theology and trauma. Preston's insights challenge us to rethink our understanding of trauma, moving away from viewing it simply as suffering. This important, timely conversation includes a discussion of spiritual hurt and the often painful reality of trauma within church communities.

As we delve into the characteristics of trauma-informed churches, Preston emphasizes prioritizing the safety of people over protecting the church's image. Our conversation highlights the pivotal roles of listening, believing, empowering, and restoring in creating trauma-informed communities.

Join us for a thoughtful exploration of trauma, theology, and the healing process.

Preston Hill Bio- 

Preston Hill is an Assistant Professor of Integrative Theology at Richmont Graduate University. He’s also a Clinical Pastoral Therapist in private practice and an Anglican priest-in-training. As a practical theologian and practicing therapist, Preston’s research, teaching, and clinical work engages themes related to theology and mental health. His theological work has engaged the Reformed tradition, science-engaged theology, and topics including suffering, theodicy, atonement, trauma, and spirituality. He’s the author of Dawn of Sunday: The Trinity and Trauma-Safe Churches and the upcoming Christ and Trauma: Theology East of Eden. In addition, Preston has edited the volume Trauma Theology: Perspectives on Christ & Wounds That Remain, which is due to be published in 2024. 

Resources:

Preston’s website

Previous episode: Becoming a Trauma-Informed Church

Free downloadable toolkit: Becoming a Trauma-Informed Church Action Plan

Spiritual First Aid (includes a module on “Becoming a Trauma-Informed Church, Community, or Organization”)

—---------

This episode was produced by WildfireCreative for the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College.

Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The Brilliance

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | TuneIn | Stitcher | RSS

Follow us on Twitter: @drjamieaten | @kentannan

Follow on Instagram: @wildfirecreativeco

Note to the listener: In this podcast, sometimes we'll have Evangelicals, and sometimes we won't. Learning how to do better involves listening to many perspectives with different insights and understanding. Sometimes, it will make us uncomfortable; sometimes we'll agree, and sometimes, we won't. We think that's good. We want to listen for correction—especially in our blind spots.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices