The Sex and Spirit Connection
queertheology's podcast
We’re back to explore the intricate relationship between spirituality and sexuality! We share our personal journeys, societal challenges, and the importance of integrating these aspects of identity to reframe how to view sexuality. We also delve into the complexities of desire, agency, and the political implications of sexual oppression. Shame and desire intertwine within theological contexts, which makes it all the more important to integrate one's faith with their sexual identity and experiences. There is an unmistakable sacredness to sexuality and it can lead to transcendent experiences....
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The Danger of Shallow Forgiveness an interview with Kaya Oakes
queertheology's podcast
We’re happy to welcome return guest Kaya Oakes back to the podcast for this episode to talk about her new book, “Not So Sorry: Abusers, False Apologies, and the Limits of Forgiveness.” Kaya Oakes is a journalist and author of six books. Her essays and journalism have appeared in many publications. She is also a faculty member in the College Writing Programs at UC Berkeley, where she teaches creative nonfiction, composition, and research writing. In this conversation, Kaya Oakes discusses her multifaceted identity as a teacher, writer, and cancer survivor, while exploring themes of...
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Shame-Sex Attraction with Lucas Wilson
queertheology's podcast
We are joined by author @lukeslamdunkwilson for this podcast episode to talk about his journey from being a former evangelical to a queer academic. Dr. Lucas Wilson is a SSHRC Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Toronto Mississauga, formerly the Justice, Equity, and Transformation Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Calgary. He is the editor of Shame-Sex Attraction: Survivors’ Stories of Conversion Therapy. He is currently working on two interrelated monograph projects that examine evangelical homophobia and transphobia in the U.S. discussing the intertwining of his faith and queer...
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Taking Another Look at Paul: An Interview with John Dominic Crossan
queertheology's podcast
We’re excited to have return guest, John Dominic Crossan, on the pod this week to talk about his new book, “Paul the Pharisee: A Vision Beyond the Violence of Civilization.” We discuss the importance of matrix as a tool for understanding the context and background of texts and why that is so important when we look at Paul. Crossan emphasizes the role of metaphor in shaping our lives and how dismissing metaphor as less than literal impacts our theology. He explores the differences between ascension and resurrection and why they matter. He talks about how his book explores this distinction...
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Judaism Unbound Interview
queertheology's podcast
A while back, we sat down with the hosts of the podcast, Judaism Unbound. So for this episode, we’re sharing that interview with y’all! In this interview, we talk about how to queer theology, share some of our favorite bible stories and discuss how to do this work well. We also touch on how other theologies, religions, and faith practices can enrich and impact our lives in a deeply meaningful way. Resources: Learn more and join the course Listen to the Join the If you want to support the Patreon and help keep the podcast up and running, you can...
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Exploring Spirituality Through Storytelling with Marques Hollie
queertheology's podcast
Brian interviews Marques Hollie for this episode of the podcast. Marques Hollie (they/he), is an operatically-trained vocalist, ritual leader, and theatre-maker, who has been telling and singing stories for as long he can remember. Following a course of study in homiletics, liturgy, Torah exegesis, and the canon of Jewish stories, Marques received ordination as a Maggid (sacred storyteller). Currently, he is a student at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. Marques shares his journey as a queer clergy person who intertwines storytelling with spirituality. They discuss their experiences of...
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Imagining New Worlds an interview with Eliot Schrefer
queertheology's podcast
In this conversation, we speak with author, Eliot Schrefer, about his journey as a writer. We discuss his identity, influences, and the importance of queer representation in literature. He delves into his latest book, 'The Brightness Between Us,' and reflects on the creative process of adapting stories for film. Eliot emphasizes the significance of storytelling in providing hope and connection for LGBTQ+ youth, while also expressing his determination to keep producing this much needed content in the face of pushback from groups that want to ban books. Takeaways Eliot's journey...
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Queer Affirming Therapy an interview with Ann Russo
queertheology's podcast
We’re joined by Ann Russo, a queer therapist, who shares her journey of growing up in a queer household and navigating the complexities of identity, religion, and acceptance. She discusses the challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in religious spaces, the importance of support systems, and the impact of religious trauma. Ann emphasizes the need for therapists to be transparent and knowledgeable about LGBTQ issues and offers insights into finding the right therapist. Our conversation highlights stories of transformation and the significance of intergenerational relationships within the queer...
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The Importance of Visibility An Interview with Chris Tompkins
queertheology's podcast
In this interview, author, advocate, and therapist Chris Tompkins shares his personal journey of self-discovery as a gay man raised in a religious environment. He discusses the challenges of reconciling his identity with his faith, the impact of religious trauma, and the importance of awareness in parenting to support LGBTQ+ children. Chris talks about why he wrote his book, “Raising LGBTQ Allies,” and emphasizes the need for open conversations and practical strategies for parents to create a supportive environment for their kids, ultimately leading to a more inclusive society. ...
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The Cool Christians an Interview Jeff Hiller (Somebody Somewhere)
queertheology's podcast
We’re kicking off our winter guest series with an interview with Jeff Hiller, a hilarious actor and comedian in NYC, best known for his role as Joel in the Peabody Award-winning HBO show ‘Somebody Somewhere.’ If you haven’t watched this show yet, be sure to check it out! In this conversation, Jeff Hiller discusses his role in the show, exploring themes of authenticity, community, and the intersection of queerness and faith. Jeff reflects on his character Joel, who navigates life in a small town while fostering connections and grappling with personal ethics. We talk about the evolution...
info_outlineWe’re gonna revisit our roots of this podcast for this episode by queering the Bible! Specifically, the passage we explore is from Genesis, the story of Jacob wrestling with God. We discuss the significance of this passage in relation to queer identities, gender narratives, and how you can bring yourself to your own interpretation of scripture. Our conversation highlights the importance of personal experiences in understanding biblical texts and emphasizes the role of journaling as a spiritual practice. We encourage y’all to read this passage and reflect on what this passage brings up for YOU!
Takeaways
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The Bible did not originally have chapters and verses.
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Jacob's story illustrates the holiness of wrestling with faith.
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Wrestling with God can be seen as a trans narrative.
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The Bible can continually surprise and teach us new things.
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Personal experiences shape our interpretations of scripture.
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Queer theology allows for diverse interpretations of biblical texts.
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Journaling can enhance our understanding of the Bible.
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Engaging with the Bible requires vulnerability and curiosity.
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The intersection of sexuality and spirituality is significant.
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Each person's interpretation of scripture is valid and valuable.
Chapters
(02:58) Wrestling with God: The Story of Jacob
(05:59) Gender Narratives in Jacob's Story
(09:03) The Bible as a Living Text
(12:04) Sexuality and Spirituality in Non-Monogamy
(15:02) Diverse Interpretations of Scripture
(17:53) The Power of Journaling in Spiritual Practice
Resources:
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In the Margins: A Transgender Man’s Journey With Scripture by Shannon TL Kearns
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Join the Sanctuary Collective Community
If you want to support the Patreon and help keep the podcast up and running, you can learn more and pledge your support at patreon.com/queertheology