Honest Conversations About Healing After Spiritual Trauma

The message of these live, in-person gatherings is that spiritual trauma is real and has a far-reaching impact—and that it’s possible to remake ourselves and heal in its aftermath.⁠

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A person crossing a street at a crosswalk on a sunny day, casting a shadow on the pavement.

Welcome to Holy Hurt Events, a series of gatherings hosted by psychologist Dr. Hillary L. McBride and author Joshua Harris.

Too often, the communities meant to nurture our souls end up hurting us instead. Hillary’s book Holy Hurt names this reality and invites us into a path of healing, connection, and meaning after spiritual trauma.

At each event, Hillary and Josh bring different but complementary perspectives. Hillary draws on years of clinical experience and research on trauma, offering language and insight to help make sense of spiritual hurt. Josh shares from his personal journey—reckoning with the impact of his past work, owning the harm it caused, and exploring what repair can look like. Together, they create space for honest dialogue, not tidy resolutions; a place to tell the truth, listen deeply, and discover we’re not alone.

This is a not-for-profit event. Every ticket sold supports mental health initiatives and therapy access.

Photo of Dr. Hillary McBride
A photo of Joshua Harris looking at the camera

Upcoming Events

Ottawa, ON

October 28, 2025
St. Albans Church
454 King Edward Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1N 7M8

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New York City, NY

October 29, 2025
Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church
155 E 22nd St, New York, NY 10010

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Kelowna, BC

November 30, 2025
UBCO Commons 201 - Lecture Hall
3297 University Way, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7

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Tickets available via Eventbrite.
Search “Holy Hurt” in your city.


Spring 2026 Dates Coming Soon

Who are these events for?

People Hurt by the Church
Who are dealing with wounds from family or religious communities.

People Deconstructing
Who are unraveling long-held beliefs and examining what still fits.

Therapists & Helpers
Who are supporting others through spiritual trauma and recovery.

People of Faith
Who are committed to building healthier, more compassionate spiritual communities.

Cover of Holy Hurt by Dr. Hillary L. McBride, featuring a collage of torn magazine pages and imagery.

Read Holy Hurt

Psychologist and author Hillary L. McBride draws on years of clinical experience and personal insight to help readers understand spiritual trauma and begin the journey toward healing and wholeness.

GET THE BOOK