A Deep Reading of Narrative: Towards a Practical Theology of Hope

Abstract

“A Deep Reading of Narrative: Towards A Practical Theology of Hope”

Tamara L. Simmonds McMaster Divinity College Hamilton, Ontario Doctor of Philosophy, 2026

This dissertation explores the complexities of human experiences of suffering in order to plumb the depths of those experiences in ways that inform and shape the moral vision of Christian communities of compassion. Specifically, attention is given to particular women’s experiences of desolation. The human predicament of desolation is concretized in contemporary published narratives authored by women who realize and interpret desolation and hope from their own experience and orientation as women. The narratives of personal reflection occasion the key question, “How could a deeper reading of biblical narratives generate insight into experiences of desolation and thereby expand core motifs of hope and compassion in practical theology?” The dissertation’s intentional focus on experiences of desolation both opens up questions for practical theological exploration, and reveals aspects of shared human experience that deepen and mature the resulting theological reflection. The retelling and interpreting of biblical narratives implements a deep reading of biblical narrative—an innovative, literary approach to reading Scripture that coalesces with practical theology. The dissertation seeks to demonstrate how a deep reading of biblical narrative might generate insight into experiences of desolation and thereby expand core practical theological motifs of hope and compassion. Imaging a new way forward towards a practical theology of hope, the thesis of the dissertation is that hope cannot be supported or sustained within the Christian community without a realistic assessment of the depth dimension of the situation that consists in both the reality and complexity of human suffering, and the reality and vastness of the compassion of God made known in Christ by the Spirit. A deep reading of biblical narrative offers potential for access to this depth dimension for practical theology.