Sennett Lecture focuses on theological resources for dealing with depression

With the incidence of depression scaling at an all-time high, this year’s Sennett Lecture at Mercyhurst University offers a timely presentation on Christian theological resources for finding solace.

Dr. Jessica Coblentz, associate professor of Religious Studies and Theology at Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana, offers the annual address on Wednesday, Sept. 27, at 7 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall. Her topic is “Depression as a Wilderness Experience: One Theological Resource for Life with Depression.” Her teaching and research focus on Catholic systematic theology, feminist theologies, and mental health in theological perspective.

“Depression sufferers often draw on rich metaphorical language to describe their suffering as an experience of displacement into another world—a harsh, desolate landscape marked by isolation, diminished agency, and feelings of entrapment,” explained Coblentz. “The Christian Scriptures likewise abound with stories of displacement into similar terrains, often known as wildernesses. Building on this overlapping imagery, I explore the theological lessons we can learn from using these biblical wilderness tales as analogues for contemporary depression.”

Research shows that the number of people reporting signs of anxiety and depression since the start of the pandemic are at an all-time high, making this lecture particularly timely, said Dr. Elizabeth Pyne, assistant professor of Religious Studies and director of the William C. Sennett Institute for Mercy and Catholic Studies at Mercyhurst, sponsor of the lecture.

“In a spirit of sensitivity and accompaniment, Dr. Coblentz merges a richly nuanced understanding of the Christian tradition with insights from contemporary psychological research,” Pyne said. “We are fortunate to welcome an accomplished scholar doing such essential work in this difficult existential territory.”

The lecture is free and open to the public; tickets and registration are not required. For more information, contact Pyne at mailto:epyne@mercyhurst.edu or 814-824-2298.