Jon Edlin's Journey of Faith and Trauma

Jon Edlin, Marketing and Engagement Lead Director at Church of the Resurrection, shares his harrowing experience of surviving a devastating tornado in Nashville in 2020. The traumatic event led to a profound crisis of faith, as Jon questioned God's role in the tragedy and struggled with feelings of anger and doubt.

Doubt as a Part of Faith

Jon emphasizes the importance of recognizing that doubt is a natural part of faith, and it's okay to question God during difficult times. He found solace in Adam Hamilton’s book, Why? Making Sense of God’s Will, which helped him reconcile his doubts with his belief in a bigger and more mysterious God.

Trauma-Informed Care and Healing

Jon advocates for trauma-informed care within the church, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing the unique needs of individuals who have experienced trauma. He credits EMDR therapy, a treatment for PTSD, with playing a crucial role in his healing process.

Embracing a Bigger Faith

Jon's message is one of hope and resilience. He encourages those who have experienced trauma to be open to different forms of healing, even those that may seem unconventional. He also emphasizes the importance of taking small steps in one's faith journey, allowing for questioning and disagreement along the way.

Jon's Work at Church of the Resurrection

Jon's work in Marketing and Engagement at Resurrection is driven by his desire to share his story and offer hope to others who may be struggling with their faith. He believes that by sharing his experience, he can help others see that doubt is not a sign of weakness but rather an opportunity to grow in their faith.