Recommended reading
Christian Books for Church Hurt
Books for church hurt, spiritual abuse, leadership harm, and cautious rebuilding.
Starting points, not prescriptions. Books can be helpful companions, but they are not therapy, diagnosis, treatment, medical advice, crisis care, or a replacement for safe people.
Still Here Faith offers Christian encouragement and resource navigation, not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are in immediate danger, call or text 988. Always consult a licensed professional for mental health care.
Explicitly Christian
Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy
by Mark Vroegop
A book on lament as a faithful way to bring pain to God.
Best for: People learning biblical lament.
Intensity: Moderate
Low-capacity score: 4/5
Still Here note: A strong fit for grief, church hurt, and unanswered prayer.
Faith-informed
Try Softer
by Aundi Kolber
A trauma-informed Christian resource about gentleness, body awareness, and healing.
Best for: Christians wanting a trauma-informed, gentle approach to growth.
Intensity: Moderate
Low-capacity score: 4/5
Still Here note: Very aligned with the Still Here tone: less striving, more compassion.
Explicitly Christian
Redeeming Power
by Diane Langberg
A serious Christian book on power, abuse, and care.
Best for: Understanding abuse, power, and harm in Christian contexts.
Intensity: Heavy
Low-capacity score: 2/5
Still Here note: Important for leaders and survivors, but heavy. Read with care.
Explicitly Christian
When Narcissism Comes to Church
by Chuck DeGroat
A Christian look at narcissism, church leadership, and harm.
Best for: Understanding toxic church leadership dynamics.
Intensity: Moderate
Low-capacity score: 3/5
Still Here note: Useful for church hurt context; avoid using it to diagnose individuals casually.
Explicitly Christian
The Emotionally Healthy Church
by Peter Scazzero
A practical church leadership book focused on emotional and spiritual maturity.
Best for: Pastors and leaders building healthier church cultures.
Intensity: Gentle
Low-capacity score: 3/5
Still Here note: Best for leaders and churches, not someone in acute crisis.
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