Re-Enchanting Re-enchanting... my lifelong search for God - Donna Freitas
Jul 2, 2025
Donna Freitas, a scholar and author of 'Wishful Thinking,' discusses her intricate journey of faith and spirituality shaped by her Catholic upbringing. She examines the influential role of literature in navigating her struggles with belief, depression, and existential questioning. Donna shares poignant experiences of trauma during graduate studies and reflects on the support from her church community amidst loss. Ultimately, she emphasizes the beauty of questioning faith and the importance of creative expression in her ongoing quest for God.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Donna's Catholic Family Roots
- Donna describes her mother and grandmother as large, lively Italian women steeped in Catholic tradition.
- Her mother was a Sunday school teacher, deeply involved in church and community life, blending faith and family naturally.
Losing Childhood Faith Early
- Donna lost her childhood faith early after questioning the existence and correctness of God.
- Her mother's view that faith is a leap unsettled Donna, leading her to lifelong questioning and doubt.
Despair as Existential Abyss
- Donna likens her depression and existential despair to Heidegger's concept of 'present at hand' where familiar things break down.
- She relates this abyss to the dark night of the soul, feeling isolated and unable to find meaning.
