Survival

Karen O’Donnell is Academic Dean at Westcott House, Cambridge. A feminist, ecumenical, practical theologian, her interdisciplinary research interests span theology, spirituality, and pedagogy. She is the author of several books with SCM Press, including The Dark Womb, which was longlisted for the 2023 Michael Ramsey Prize.

"In this profoundly compassionate guide, Karen O’Donnell presents tangible, embodied practices designed to help trauma survivors navigate their faith journeys. By exploring reconnection through themes of anger, hopelessness, pleasure, rest, and even the act of enjoying good food, she provides invaluable practical support. Readers will find no pressurised suggestions here; they are reminded that the journey of remaking isn’t linear and are invited to consider what resonates with their own lives. This powerful book will be a heartfelt companion for anyone working through their own trauma, or supporting others on their path to renewal."

• Acknowledgements viiIntroduction: Radical Spaces for Radical Love 11 The Post-Traumatic Remaking of the Self 82 The Practice of Unforgiveness 193 The Practice of Anger 314 The Practice of Hopelessness 435 The Practice of Taking Action 586 The Practice of Deconstruction 737 The Practice of Pleasure (yes, that kind of pleasure!) 878 The Practice of Rest 1009 The Practice of Eating Good Food 112Afterword: Keep on Surviving 125Appendix: In the Sacred Pause – Liturgical Resources for Holy Saturday 129Additional Material for ‘In the Sacred Pause’ 144Index of Names and Subjects 149