Episode Summary
Amanda shares her background of growing up in a long line of Christian families, feeling safe to ask questions, and when her faith became personal, highlighting her love for church and the Bible. We delve into the theological differences she experienced during her teenage years and the “bubble” she felt she was in. Amanda discusses the pivotal moments when she began questioning her beliefs, leading to a shift in her faith and resulting in anxiety and depression.
She talks about the significance of maintaining her faith despite not having all the answers, and the impact this journey had on her relationship with her family. Amanda believes that doubt will always be a part of her faith and discusses reconciling her belief in a good God with the harm done under Christianity. She explains why she still identifies as a Christian and what she currently believes, sharing what brings her joy and peace in the world and in her faith. Finally, Amanda offers advice to someone starting their own journey of faith deconstruction.
My Thoughts
Amanda has such a warm and gentle spirit; she is a real and good human and is a great representation of the label ‘Christian’. Especially when the label comes with baggage, heaviness, and harm. She is a representation that we can have faith, doubt, mystery on our own terms.
More About Amanda
Amanda is a Faith Deconstruction & Reconstruction Coach + Clinical Social Worker. You can find her at the intersection of mental health, social work, and theology.
She supports thoughtful Christians and communities who are wrestling through big doubts and questions and hope to stay within the Christian faith while finding more ease and wonder in the process. Her goal is to help people ask different questions and expand the lens of what can be possible in their Christian faith.
Connect With Us
- Amanda’s Website – https://www.heyamandawaldron.com/
- To connect with Amanda over on Instagram – @heyamandawaldron
- To connect with Sam on Instagram – @anchoredcounsellingservices
- Want to contact with Sam about the podcast or therapy? Use this contact form.