Preston Hill: Psychological Trauma & Theology

Tripp Fuller

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Preston Hill and Sarey Conception for a conversation about psychological trauma and theology. Preston’s academic work focuses on trauma theology, aiming to help people of faith understand and address trauma through a science-informed approach. The conversation delves into the importance of balancing the seriousness of trauma with the possibilities for hope and healing. Additionally, we discuss the launch of the Spiritual First Responders Project.

Dr. Preston Hill serves as Assistant Professor of Integrative Theology at Richmont Graduate University and the Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program. ln 2021 he completed a Ph.D. in Theology at St Mary’s College, University of St Andrews, having previously completed an MLitt degree in Analytic and Exegetical Theology from the Logos Institute at St Andrews. He has released his first coauthored book with Scott Harrower and Joshua Cockayne entitled Dawn of Sunday: The Trinity and Trauma-Safe Church (Cascade) and is releasing his first edited volume entitled Christ and Trauma: Theology East of Eden (Pickwick Publications). Dr. Hill is also ordained in the Anglican tradition and is a pre-licensed clinical pastoral therapist.

Spiritual First Responders Project: Spiritual thriving after a big faith change is possible! The Spiritual First Responders Project is a new resource for navigating faith change with evidence-backed processing groups led by licensed mental health professionals. They are looking for folks who have de-identified from religion but are still seeking a healthy community and some sort of healthy spiritual practice.

We know that globally, one out of every five people used to identify as religious and now no longer identify as religious. Half of those folks still have persisting spiritual desires and don’t feel like those desires are being satisfied. There’s no current social infrastructure to help them flourish how they want. If you aren’t finding room for doubting, questioning, or exploring other parts of your own tradition and other traditions altogether, and you want a safe community to do so, consider joining the SFRP. The essential aim is to provide groups that are aimed to meet the unique needs of this population. So if you would benefit from a safe, anonymous group led by a licensed mental health professional, check it out.

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