ABSTRACT

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the profound impact that these disasters had on nearby churches. It offers an introduction to theological reflection on the experience of trauma. The book draws on the physiological aspects of trauma experience. It considers the relationship between the Bible and traumatic experience and the theological, practical and pastoral implications of reading biblical text through the interpretive lens of trauma. The book also focuses on the theme of providence. It provides a systematic approach to responding to different categories of disaster experience and also draws on reflections arising from the Holocaust. The book explores practical considerations for working with lament psalms with individuals and communities that have experienced trauma. It addresses the gifts and the challenges – theological, practical and pastoral – of Eucharistic liturgies in contexts marked by trauma.