Trauma Theologies with Dr. Karen O’Donnell (Podcast)

CW: generational trauma, genocide

Dr. Karen O’Donnell is Academic Dean and Lecturer in Worship and Human Community at Westcott House at the Cambridge Theological Federation. She is the author of Broken Bodies and The Dark Womb, and the co-editor of Feminist Trauma Theologies and Bearing Witness. (Bonus note: Her co-editor is next week’s guest Katie Cross.)

In this episode we explore trauma theologies. Dr. O’Donnell introduces us to the concept of trauma theologies and relates those to trauma theories. She helps us to understand how trauma and processing trauma affects our bodies, and she explains how various types of trauma connect with the work of Christ–both in the Incarnation and in the Eucharist.

And while you’re at it, be sure to check out our previous episode with Dr. O’Donnell about theology and reproductive loss (here).

Series Disclaimer: This series explores the concept of “trauma,” its sources, and its expressions from a range of perspectives. Some of our guests are licensed mental health professionals; some are those with formative experiences of trauma; and others are those who explore trauma through various theoretical frameworks. We hope that this series provides useful information to all that enables them to begin to be trauma-informed and to love others and themselves better. Our series is by no means meant to replace the important work of one-on-one time with a trauma-informed professional.

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