Seminars and courses

Frank Rogers Jr. is a spiritual director, retreat leader, co-director of the Center for Engaged Compassion, and a professor of spiritual formation at the Claremont School of Theology. He is also a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. His recent book, Cradled in the Arms of Compassion: A Spiritual Journey from Trauma to Recovery (awarded one of the best spiritual books of 2023 by Spirituality and Practice, and Best Religion Book 2024 by American Book Fest) chronicles his quest for psycho-spiritual resources in healing from childhood abuse. These resources now inform his work as a teacher and spiritual companion.

Drawing from his experience and research, this workshop will explore the spiritual dimensions of trauma and its recovery. Trauma impacts the body, the psyche, and one’s relationality. It also impacts the spirit and one’s relationship with the sacred. Through story, presentation, personal reflection and contemplative exercises, we will survey the spiritual wounds and crises of faith that trauma can incur; the ways that spiritual teachings and communities can both exacerbate the pain of trauma survivors and support a survivor’s journey; and how spiritual resources and practices can enhance the healing of and recovery from trauma. This workshop will be especially helpful for those who have known trauma, and for those who companion survivors as pastors, chaplains, mental health practitioners, spiritual directors, and caring allies.