Aiden Arata, writer and queen of depression Instagram, joins the podcast to unpack the pageantry and horror of Catholic schools. They discuss religious trauma, lack of comprehensive sex education, cult-like behavior, favorite punishments, and the impact on students. The speakers share personal experiences, including being outed as queer, guilt and dogmatism, and the resurgence of Catholicism among young progressives. The chapter also explores the power structure within Catholicism and the struggles faced by queer individuals.
Catholic schools can create a cult-like environment due to strict rules and lack of comprehensive sex education, affecting LGBTQ+ students.
Catholic schools have a history of abuse and discrimination, perpetuated by authoritarian and secretive structures.
Catholicism's rituals and traditions contribute to its unique appeal and cult-like perception, with ties to witchcraft and empowering women through mysticism.
Deep dives
Introduction to June's Journey
June's Journey is an iPhone game that is gaining popularity among true crime fans. The game is set in the 1920s and follows the protagonist, June, as she solves the mystery of her sister's murder at her family's estate. Players participate by finding hidden clues and also get to decorate the island estate. The game provides a fun and relaxing experience for those looking for a non-violent true crime game.
The Complexities of Catholic School
Catholic schools are known for their strict rules and rituals, often leading to feelings of guilt and self-loathing. The emphasis on obedience and punishment can create a cult-like environment. Additionally, the lack of comprehensive sex education and the demonization of anything outside of strict Catholic doctrine can have long-lasting effects on students, particularly those who identify as LGBTQ+. The contradictions between preaching love and acceptance while rejecting certain identities create internal conflicts for many former Catholic school students.
The Dark Side of Catholic Schools
While Catholic schools can provide a quality education for many students, they also have a history of abuse and homophobia. The systemic issues stemming from the Catholic Church's handling of sexual abuse cases have impacted schools as well, with instances of abuse and silencing survivors. LGBTQ+ students often experience discrimination and prejudice, struggling to reconcile their identity with the teachings of the Church. The authoritarian and secretive nature of Catholic schools can perpetuate harmful ideologies and hinder personal growth and acceptance.
Catholicism's Theater and Allure
Catholicism's theatrical rituals and traditions, such as the Eucharist, Rosary, shrines, and mass, contribute to its unique appeal and cult-like perception. The aesthetic, including stained glass and candles, adds to the allure. The restrictions and tension associated with practices like lent also hold a certain sexy allure. Catholicism's ties to witchcraft in medieval times and its role in empowering women through mysticism are noted.
Catholic School's Cult-like Aspects
Catholic schools possess certain cult-like elements, including gendered hierarchies, homophobia, and the dark history of child abuse and residential schools. The institutional structure enables the cover-up of these abuses, highlighting the dangers of hurting people under the guise of saving them. While some progressive changes are being made, the power structures and controversies within Catholic schools persist, creating a cult-like hold over students.
Grab your rosary and slap on your plaid skirt (although you WILL need to recite six “Our Fathers” if it rides even one millimeter above the knee!!!) because this week’s theatrical episode is here to validate and possibly trigger all our former Catholic School #religioustrauma girlies. Recovering Catholic Aiden Arata—writer, “queen of depression Instagram,” and Amanda's former college pal—joins the pod to unpack all the pageantry and horror of this objectively bizarre (and yet totally mainstream) marriage of religion and education. Bless the many listeners who submitted their voice memo confessions—you truly made this episode sparkle brighter than the Papal tiara.
To order a copy of Amanda's new book, The Age of Magical Overthinking, click here :)
For book BTS, news about her forthcoming Magical Overthinkers podcast, and more, consider subscribing to her newsletter!
