The Stalcup School of Theology for the Laity presents the Sixth Betty Jo Hay Seminar on Religion and Mental Health. Monica Coleman, Professor of Constructive Theology and African American Religions at the Claremont School of Theology in Claremont, CA will speak about “Losing Faith while Living with Depression.”
Many people think of losing faith as the opposite of a strong spiritual life. For individuals living with depression, loss occurs frequently. Depression involves a loss of joy, a loss of self, a loss of functionality. And, for many, a loss of faith. Yet with a loss of faith, can come the ability to find faith anew. This seminar will discuss ways that people living with depression can own the losses that they experience. This seminar will also explore how, amidst loss, people living with depression can choose life. We will discuss both theological perspectives and spiritual practices that support a life of faith for individuals and communities that live with depressive conditions.
Registration is $35 and includes a light lunch. Scholarships are available. Register online or call 817.257.7580.
This seminar is one of a series of learning opportunities open to lay members and clergy of any denomination, presented by the Stalcup School of Theology for the Laity at Brite Divinity School.
About the Speaker
Monica A. Coleman is Professor of Constructive Theology and African American Religions at Claremont School of Theology in southern California. There she also serves as Co-Director of the Center for Process Studies and Director of Process and Faith. Coleman has earned degrees from Harvard University, Vanderbilt University and Claremont Graduate University. Coleman is an ordained elder in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. She is the author or editor of six books, and several articles and book chapters, including her memoir Bipolar Faith: a Black Woman’s Journey with Depression and Faith and a forty-day devotional Not Alone: Reflections on Faith and Depression. Her book Making a Way Out of No Way: a Womanist Theology is required reading at leading theological schools around the country. Coleman is on the standing committee of Persons with Disabilities in the Profession and former co-chair of the Black Theology Group in the American Academy of Religion.
About the Stalcup School of Theology for the Laity
From Brite’s website:
The Stalcup School of Theology for the Laity is open to all who want to continue learning and growing through biblical study, exploration of contemporary issues from a faith perspective, interfaith dialogue, and critical thinking about the basis of Christian understanding of God, humanity, and the world. Top scholars with a heart for the church bring their expertise and passion for sharing that knowledge with people engaged in ministry and those who simply want to learn.
Seminars are typically held on Saturdays and participants may attend an individual event or sign up for the whole series.
