Trauma-Informed Christian Ethics

Darryl W. Stephens teaches ministerial ethics at Lancaster Theological Seminary, Moravian University, in Pennsylvania, USA

• List of TablesPrefaceAcknowledgmentsList of AbbreviationsIntroductionPart One: Foundations1.1 Reenvisioning Christian Ethics1.2 Trauma-Informed Response1.3 Bearing Witness1.4 DiakoniaPart Two: Practices of Discipleship2.1 Grounded Being2.2 Attentive Presence2.3 Historical Clarity2.4 Meaningful ParticipationPart Three: Contemporary Challenges3.1 Racism and Sexual Violence3.2 Climate Change and Empire3.3 Abuse of Power Conclusion: Strengthening Moral CommunityBibliographyindex

Historically grounded and oriented toward liberation and justice, Stephens offers an excellent entrée into understanding the importance of trauma-informed Christian ethics, while also expanding how we think about trauma by moving from the personal (intimate violence) to the structural (climate change) to the sacred (clergy abuse). In promoting a Christian witness of radical empathy, Stephens challenges readers to take up the task of bearing witness and offers readers tools for developing a trauma-informed Christian ethic that can help Christian leaders and congregations move toward moral repair and restorative justice. It is indispensable reading for shaping ministries of compassion and justice in a world where too many people have experienced violence and exploitation.