How Unitarian Universalism Helps Rebuild Faith After Religious Trauma | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 046

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. Beth Dana, and Rev. T. J. FitzGerald discuss religious trauma and how it continues to impact the spiritual and emotional well-being of many people, especially in communities like ours in North Texas. They explore what healing can look like within a Unitarian Universalist context, where spiritual practices like prayer and community are reclaimed without fear or shame. The conversation touches on growing up in affirming faith spaces, the challenge of teaching spiritual language after trauma, and how this church supports people in finding wholeness without harmful theology. Whether you're deconstructing, recovering, or seeking a safe place to land, this episode offers honesty, hope, and care. 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 – Welcome back to Tiny Pulpit Talks 00:43 – Introducing the topic: religious trauma 00:56 – Why mental health and faith are deeply connected 01:04 – Common fears people bring into new church spaces 02:04 – Growing up UU vs. experiencing trauma in other traditions 02:41 – The challenge of reclaiming spiritual practices like prayer 04:04 – How this church creates safe and affirming space 05:03 – Teaching kids spiritual language after trauma 07:00 – Coming out, closets, and being truly seen in church 09:29 – Community vs. harmful theology: the tension many face 10:22 – Considering a support group for religious trauma 10:32 – Final thoughts: you're not alone. Healing is possible 10:59 – Outro and invitation to reach out or connect First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here:   Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond: https://dallasuu.org/give-now