Episode #193
Jean Neely: Christ in the Abyss
“I’m always in the abyss…I used to feel like it was wrong that I was there…that God was upset with me that I was always there. And I realized I had grown into trusting more that God holds all of it. I’m not outside of God.” — Jean Neely Author and educator Jean Neely joins us on the podcast to talk about the complicated reality of living with mental illness and her journey of faith along the way. How do people who suffer from on-going mental illness reconcile this reality with a desire to nurture a life of faith believing that God—full of love and mercy—hasn’t abandoned them? Dr. Jean Neely. Jean’s recent book Christ in the Abyss: Cultivating Deep Faith amid Depression and Despair, is a beautifully written, honest, and vulnerable look at how Jean has lived with the realities of Bi-Polar Disorder and at the same time has sought to know God and experience his presence in all the ups and downs. Jean writes from her own situation, but the words of wisdom and encouragement she shares are helpful to all who suffer, whether from chronic illness or other challenges, and to those who want to understand and love them. As a bonus, Jean's allowed us to publish her Introduction as a preview for our listeners. And if you listen past the end of the credits, you'll hear a bonus excerpt from our interview where Jean talks about the process of becoming a Benedictine oblate. So, jump right in. We are so glad you are here! For show notes and other information, visit our Substack article .
