Feminist Trauma Theologies: Body, Scripture & Church in Critical Perspective

"Feminist Trauma Theologies: Body, Scripture & Church in Critical Perspective," edited by Karen O’Donnell and Katie Cross, is a groundbreaking collection that explores the intersection of trauma, theology, and feminist perspectives. This compilation is significant in its approach to trauma theology, a field that acknowledges the enduring impact of traumatic experiences and seeks to integrate these experiences within theological discourse.

The book is described as a revelatory journey, sometimes uncomfortable to read, but contributing significantly to critically constructive theology. It recognizes trauma as an ongoing event, persisting in the present through symptoms that live in the body and intrusive memories. The feminist trauma theologies discussed in the book are characterized by an honest confrontation with God, a defiance of convention, and a commitment to articulate personal experiences within a communal context.

The first set of essays in the book addresses violence against women, including analysis of survivor testimony, domestic violence, and the impact of violence and abuse against women in biblical texts and historical contexts. This section sets a tone for confronting difficult and often overlooked issues within Christian theology and history.

Another section focuses on female trauma as experienced within Christian communities. This includes physical and psychological trauma affecting women in ordained ministry, in different cultural contexts such as Indian Christianity, and in evangelical churches. These discussions highlight how Christian communities can both harm and heal in relation to female trauma.

The book also includes a section on positive methodologies for "post-traumatic re-making." This part of the book opens the way for an intersectional exploration of trauma, addressing issues beyond gender, such as race, poverty, health, and sexualized trauma not specific to women.

One of the significant contributions of the book is its exploration of trauma in relation to race, poverty, and LGBTQ+ experiences. This includes discussions on the impact of colonialism, the challenges faced by trans and intersex individuals within Christian communities, and the trauma of reproductive loss.

Overall, "Feminist Trauma Theologies" is lauded for doing theology "from the place where it hurts," addressing personal experiences of racism, gendered aggression, and exclusion. The book has been praised for raising the profile of a subject matter that has been marginalized and misunderstood, offering heartfelt and hopeful essays that contribute to a more inclusive and sensitive understanding of theology.

In summary, "Feminist Trauma Theologies" is a critical resource for those interested in the intersections of feminism, trauma, and theology. It offers profound insights into how trauma is experienced and processed in religious contexts, and how feminist perspectives can contribute to a more inclusive and healing theological discourse.