Analogy of the Wound: A Theology of Communication for Healing and Social Transformation

This book argues that communication can be a way of salvation for the sinned-against, sinners, and all of creation through an analogy of the wound. Rooted in Jesus’ praxis of healing, this theology can assist in recognizing, understanding, and interpreting the harmful residue that remains in the aftermath of violence to repair human dignity and work for the common good. The author weaves together insights from methods of contextual theologies, the wisdom of Black and Womanist Theologies, Korean diaspora theologies of ’han’, psychologies of trauma and moral injury, and the Catholic tradition of analogy to arrive at a unique synthesis: moments of salvation can be found in carefully communicating woundedness in the midst of building beloved community. Although the dissimilarities in our woundedness may always be greater than our similarities, the similarities convey truth and meaning and hold the possibility of the church living as Christ’s wounded and resilient Body. We aid each other’s healing in right relationship.

Kevin P. Considine is Director of the Robert J. Schreiter Institute for Precious Blood Spirituality and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, IL.