In this episode of Post-Traumatic Growth, Dr. Gerry Crete sits down with Dr. Donald Wallenfang—Secular Carmelite, theologian, professor at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, and father of six—to explore what the Church owes young people in a post-pandemic world. Drawing on the political theology of Johann Baptist Metz and the Carmelite contemplative tradition, Dr. Wallenfang makes the case that narrative, memory, and solidarity are the foundations of genuine accompaniment.

Main Topics:

• The post-pandemic mental health crisis among youth and why advice alone is not enough
• Dr. Wallenfang's journey from youth ministry to theology to clinical psychology
• Johann Baptist Metz's political theology and the concept of "dangerous memories"
• How narrative and storytelling connect young people's suffering to Christ's passion
• Carmelite contemplative spirituality as a foundation for pastoral and clinical presence

Chapters:

• 00:00: Welcome and Introduction
• 02:11: Adoption, Vocation, and the Path to Theology
• 05:27: Youth Ministry and Pastoral Accompaniment
• 09:19: Encountering Youth Trauma in Suburbia
• 16:26: Trauma, Empathy, and the Limits of the Minister
• 19:39: Safety Before Vulnerability
• 21:03: Johann Baptist Metz and Dangerous Memories
• 24:16: Narrative, Memory, and Dangerous Stories
• 31:07: Carmelite Contemplation and Full Presence
• 36:25: Advice for Parish Leaders and Youth Ministers

Resources Mentioned:

• The Elijah Institute: https://elijah-institute.org/
• Roots: Catholic Youth Evangelization in a Post-Pandemic World: https://www.amazon.com/Roots-Catholic-Evangelization-Post-Pandemic-Perspectives/dp/1666732184
• The Mendicant Philosopher: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMendicantPhilosopher
• Catholic Therapists: https://catholictherapists.com/

Produced by Saint Kolbe Studios: https://saintkolbestudios.com/