When Church Hurts: A Liberation Theology Approach to Religious Trauma Recovery

When Church Hurts is a compassionate, justice-centered companion for anyone who loved God deeply but was wounded by the very people and institutions that claimed to speak for God.

Written by Rev. Jason Carson Wilson, this ebook blends somatic trauma wisdom (Resmaa Menakem), Black liberation theology (James Cone), and queer theology into a practical path for recovery. It addresses the unique pain of religious trauma—especially for LGBTQIA+ people, Black survivors, women, and others marginalized in faith communities—without demanding premature forgiveness or return to harmful spaces.

Inside you'll find:

• Clear explanations of Religious Trauma Syndrome and how it differs from other trauma
• Worksheets like the Spiritual Wounds Inventory
• Somatic practices for body-based healing
• Tools for grieving the church, decolonizing your spirituality, and rebuilding authentic sacred practices
• Guidance on finding affirming community and professional support

Whether you're deconstructing, reconstructing, or simply trying to breathe again, this book honors your experience and reminds you: You are not broken. You are healing.

First Edition • June 2026 • Includes crisis resources and journal prompts.

Not a replacement for professional mental health support—pair it with affirming therapy when needed.