Dr. Marcia Webb, MDiv, PhD is associate professor of psychology at Seattle Pacific University and is one of our wonderful retreat speakers. Dr. Webb will consider the role of meaning-making in the midst of suffering and loss, particularly in the event of miscarriage. She will examine the significance of the hope for a child as a theme resonating throughout the Scriptures. Barren or bereaved believers are commonly presented in biblical texts, highlighting the Judeo-Christian awareness of the acute nature of this particular form of suffering. How do people cope with these losses? Psychological research suggests that, when dealing with trauma and stress of all kinds, people often attempt to understand their losses in the context of a broader life meaning and purpose. This path to greater understanding may be challenging, complex, and extended, with periods of confusion and frustration along the way. Yet psychological research also indicates that, over time, people can attain greater meaning and hope, and their faith may be an important component of this process.

Join us on March 9th to hear more on meaning-making and grief from SPU’s Dr. Marcia Webb.