“Supernatural” Forgiveness: Evelyn Underhill’s Insights in Dialogue with Monique Lisbon

Forgiveness is a complex theological concept and a complicated and nuanced reality. In this article we hear the voices of two women writing from the standpoint of Christian theology. First, Evelyn Underhill, a British, mystical theologian and spiritual director (1875–1941) who was the first woman to lecture in theology at the University of Oxford. In her retreat talks, “Abba,” Underhill teaches that forgiveness is “supernatural,” a reality enabled by the Spirit. Second, Underhill’s insights are “earthed” and critically reflected upon by being placed in dialogue with Monique Lisbon, a contemporary, Australian songwriter and survivor of child sex abuse. Excerpts from Underhill’s spiritual direction further ground and flesh out her spiritual theology concerning forgiveness. The article closes with hope, affirming Underhill’s theology that forgiveness is “supernatural,” yet questions remain concerning the complexity of the forgiveness journey for victims of the most heinous of crimes