In this episode, I delve into the unique challenges that Catholic and Christian trauma survivors face in their healing journeys. Drawing from my own experiences and observations, I outline five specific reasons why faith can often complicate trauma recovery for believers.

From the difficulty of accepting abuse within 'good' religious families, to the guilt around naming harm and the complexities of forgiveness, I discuss the psychological and spiritual hurdles that can impede healing. Join me as I explore how religious convictions, while deeply meaningful, sometimes inadvertently obstruct the path to recovery.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Ex-Missionaries of Charity allege culture of abuse and neglect
https://cruxnow.com/church/2024/07/ex-missionaries-of-charity-allege-culture-of-abuse-and-neglect

"The Turning" : The dark side of Mother Teresa's order, according to nuns who left
https://www.salon.com/2021/05/19/the-turning-the-dark-side-of-mother-teresas-order-according-to-nuns-who-left/

Report: Jean Vanier’s L’Arche Hid ‘Mystical-Sexual’ Sect for Decades
https://www.christianitytoday.com/2023/01/jean-vanier-l-arche-abuse-sect-report-thomas-philippe-catho/

'Confusion, control and abuse': Report offers new details about Jean Vanier's secret sect and sexual exploitation
https://www.ncronline.org/news/confusion-control-and-abuse-report-offers-new-details-about-jean-vaniers-secret-sect-and

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00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:04 Challenges for Catholic and Christian Trauma Survivors
02:15 Reason 1: Difficulty Admitting Abuse in Religious Contexts
11:36 Reason 2: Unrecognised Abusive Dynamics
17:12 Reason 3: The Pressure to Forgive
22:37 Reason 4: Guilt in Naming Harm
27:09 Reason 5: Distrust of Secular Resources
34:43 The Impact of Religious Convictions on Healing
35:58 Conclusion and Invitation to Reflect