Fingernail Faith - Faith in Adversity

Fingernail Faith - Faith in Adversity

Presented by Michelle Fisk, this session introduces her new book Fingernail Faith – Faith in Adversity, the culmination of four years of in-depth research and reflection. Drawing together the principles of theology, psychology, neuroscience, and social anthropology, Michelle explores how faith is shaped, tested, and sustained through chronic illness, loss, and profound suffering.

In this seminar, Michelle weaves real, contemporary stories of people navigating adversity with the lived experiences found in traditional biblical narratives. Through these parallel journeys, she skilfully connects ancient stories to modern lives, showing how timeless faith experiences resonate within today’s psychological and social realities. Using practical, evidence-based tools from psychology alongside a strong theological framework, Fingernail Faith offers readers a grounded and compassionate approach to understanding suffering.

This session invites attendees to reflect on the question: how does faith endure when life feels most fragile? Michelle offers insight not only into responding within one’s own circumstances of pain or uncertainty, but also into supporting others through their darkest times. By integrating science, story, and spirituality, this presentation provides a powerful guide for cultivating empathy, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity.