The Apostasy Awakening: Challenging and Healing from Christian Colonialism

Abstract

This dissertation explores the psychological and spiritual impacts of apostasy from Salvation Christian Colonialism (SCC), emphasizing the transformative potential of leaving a religious system that perpetuates chronic shame and religious trauma. The study utilizes Joseph Camp- bell’s Hero’s Journey and Fowler’s Stages of Faith Development as frameworks to analyze the journey of apostates, positioning apostasy as an act of decolonization and personal liberation. Through Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), the research reveals how SCC’s doctrinal rigidity, literalism, and hierarchical structures reinforce notions of white cultural supremacy and objectify humanity based on adherence to white cultural myths. This study underscores the conflict be- tween SCC and modern principles of mental health, human rights, and individual authenticity. The findings highlight the therapeutic potential of trauma-informed, attachment-based practices in fostering psychological maturity and spiritual growth beyond religious trauma. This research amplifies the voices of historically marginalized groups within SCC, highlighting how their wis- dom aligns with contemporary mental health principles that advocate for more compassionateand inclusive cultural and spiritual practices. This dissertation concludes by proposing that Christianity could be revitalized by embracing its mythological status, toward an alignment with contemporary values of equality, compassion, and peace.