Queer Theology

Shame is a huge part of culture and we discuss the role of shame in sex and relationships, particularly in relation to purity culture, and the political repercussions of shame. We explore the historical context of shame, such as the Lavender Scare and the rise of the religious right, and how shame has been used as a tool for control and manipulation. There is such an importance to understanding shame as a systemic and political issue, rather than just a personal emotion. But there is power and resistance in self-acceptance and combating shame by embracing our desires and bodies!   Takeaways Shame can be a powerful tool for control and manipulation, and it is important to recognize the political and systemic implications of shame. Understanding the historical context of shame, such as the Lavender Scare and the rise of the religious right, helps to shed light on its origins and effects. Embracing one’s desires and bodies, and resisting societal shame, can be an act of resistance and self-acceptance. Creating a supportive community and engaging in open conversations about shame and desires can be healing and empowering.   Chapters (03:01)The Political Repercussions of Shame (06:53) Unpacking the History of Shame and Purity Culture (12:09) Resisting Shame: Embracing Desires and Bodies (15:04) Creating a Supportive Community to Combat Shame   Resources: Join the Poly Possibilities course at queertheology.com/poly-possibilities 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   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT The post Undoing Shame appeared first on Queer Theology.

In this conversation, we discuss the intersection of polyamory, spirituality, and faith. We explore why monogamous individuals should care about polyamory, the importance of integrating spirituality and non-monogamy, and how polyamory can inspire new ways of structuring relationships and the world. We also get into the need for proactive positive messages to counteract shame and negative societal messages and highlight the importance of community, family, and intentional living. What would it look like to expand and imagine more expansive and inclusive possibilities for our relationships AND communities?   Takeaways Polyamory can offer valuable lessons in communication, intentionality, and dealing with difficult emotions like jealousy, which can benefit monogamous individuals as well. Integrating spirituality and non-monogamy is important to counteract shame and negative societal messages, and to define the goodness of polyamory on its own terms. Polyamory invites us to expand our notions of community and family, and to imagine more inclusive and just ways of structuring relationships and the world. It is important to find spaces where we can bring our whole selves, integrate different aspects of our identities, and cultivate connections with others who share our values. Polyamory challenges us to question societal expectations and consider alternative ways of living and relating, fostering a sense of intentionality and joy in our lives.   Chapters (01:26) Why Monogamous Individuals Should Care About Polyamory (08:52) Integrating Spirituality and Non-Monogamy (19:00) Expanding Notions of Community and Family (25:19) Creating Spaces for Wholeness and Integration (27:39) Imagining New Possibilities for Relationships and the World   Resources: Jesus is Polyamorous  Join the Poly Possibilities course at queertheology.com/poly-possibilities Rituals for Resistance & Resilience part of Spiritual Study Hall 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   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT The post Poly Possibilities appeared first on Queer Theology.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of listening to the wisdom of our bodies. Really tuning in and paying attention to what your body is trying to tell you. We explore how societal messages of sex negativity and shame can lead to a disconnection from our bodies, and how reclaiming that connection can be a powerful act of resistance. It is so important to recognize the significance of joy and pleasure in our lives to fuel our activism!   Takeaways Societal messages of sex negativity and shame can lead to a disconnection from our bodies, but it is important to reclaim that connection and listen to the wisdom of our bodies. Reconnecting with our bodies and embracing pleasure and joy is a powerful act of resistance against societal control and manipulation. Tuning into our bodies’ signals and sensations can help us set boundaries, navigate difficult relationships, and prioritize self-care. Joy and pleasure are essential in our lives and in our activism, as they provide the foundation for a positive future and create resilience in the face of challenges. Joining courses like Poly Possibilities and communities like Sanctuary Collective can provide support and resources for exploring these topics further.   Chapters (03:58) Poly Possibilities Course: Exploring the Intersections of Polyamory and Spirituality (08:29) Listening to the Wisdom of Our Bodies: Overcoming Sex Negativity and Shame (13:12) Tuning into Body Signals: Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care (20:24) The Power of Joy and Pleasure in Activism (25:39) Joy as a Form of Resistance: Creating a Positive Future (28:59) Join the Poly Possibilities Course and Sanctuary Collective for Support and Exploration   Resources: Rituals for Resistance & Resilience part of Spiritual Study Hall 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   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT   The post Listening to the Wisdom of Your Body appeared first on Queer Theology.

We’re answering a listener question on the podcast this week: Have you always been so open minded? And if you haven’t, what was it that made you become this way? Not only do we answer this question but we discuss the importance of curiosity and open-mindedness in ALL aspects of life. We share their personal experiences of how we were able to cultivate curiosity and the role it has played in our journeys of self-discovery and growth. One thing that is so important is the need for courage to stay open to new ideas and perspectives, even when it challenges our beliefs. We’ve also got some practical tips on how to cultivate curiosity and how you can work on being more open to the world around you.   Takeaways Curiosity and open-mindedness are important for personal growth and self-discovery. Cultivating curiosity requires courage to challenge our beliefs and be open to new ideas and perspectives. Reading books and engaging with longer-form content are effective ways to explore new topics and expand our knowledge. Starting with low-stakes topics can help build the muscle of curiosity before diving into more complex issues. Curiosity grounded in joy and connection is vital in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.   Chapters (07:34) The Role of Courage in Challenging Beliefs (13:25) Unhooking from Fear and Indoctrination (19:45) Practical Tips for Cultivating Curiosity (27:27) The Importance of the Micro and Connection (32:26) Curiosity Grounded in Joy and Connection   Resources: Get curious at queertheology.com/books Ask your own question at queertheology.com/listen 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. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT The post Cultivating Curiosity [Listener Question] appeared first on Queer Theology.

In this conversation, Brian and Shannon discuss the theme of unlearning and relearning. They share personal experiences and insights on the process of unlearning harmful beliefs and embracing new perspectives. They touch on topics such as masculinity, the fear of not being accepted by God, and the concept of abundance in Christianity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and the ongoing journey of unlearning and relearning.   Takeaways Unlearning involves identifying and challenging harmful beliefs and perspectives that have been ingrained in us. The process of unlearning and relearning is ongoing and requires self-reflection and intentional effort. Masculinity and societal expectations can shape our beliefs and understanding of ourselves. It is important to question and redefine these notions. The fear of not being accepted by God or facing eternal damnation can be a source of anxiety for LGBTQ+ individuals. It is important to explore alternative interpretations of religious teachings. Abundance in Christianity is not about material excess, but about experiencing joy, love, and liberation in all aspects of life. Unlearning and relearning involves letting go of guilt, shame, and fear, and embracing a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of faith and spirituality.   Chapters (10:24) Unlearning and Relearning: Challenging Harmful Beliefs (13:43) Redefining Masculinity: Breaking Free from Societal Expectations (15:07) Finding Acceptance: Overcoming Fear and Doubt (29:24) The Ongoing Journey: Embracing Unlearning and Relearning   Resources: Join the  Sanctuary Collective Community Why “Have you Accepted Jesus?” is the Wrong Question  Is It All About Getting Into Heaven?   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.   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT The post Unlearning and Relearning appeared first on Queer Theology.

Avra Shapiro (they/them) joins us for a fantastic conversation about God this week. Avra is a queer Jewish mystic and freelance Kohenet and discusses their journey to becoming a Kohenet. Avra shares their understanding of God as an ever-flowing source of support and the importance of cultivating a personal relationship with the divine, especially by using different names for God. Avra explains how exploring the power of using different names for God can unlock new perspectives and connections. They emphasize the importance of finding queer teachers and communities that resonate with your own experiences and desires to deepen this connection. Avra encourages listeners to engage in spiritual practices that connect them to something bigger than themselves and bring joy and grounding to their lives.   Takeaways Cultivating a personal relationship with the divine is crucial and can bring support, grounding, and life-enhancing experiences. Using different names for God can unlock new perspectives and connections, allowing for a more personal and intimate relationship. Finding queer teachers and communities that resonate with your experiences and desires is important for spiritual growth and healing. Engaging in spiritual practices that connect you to something bigger than yourself can bring joy, grounding, and a sense of rootedness. Exploring the teachings and wisdom of different traditions can help reclaim and make them your own, while also acknowledging and addressing the harms of patriarchy and colonization.   Chapters (05:10) Avra’s Journey to Becoming a Kohenet (10:22) Creating Space for the Divine to Come In (15:16) Understanding God and Using Different Names (39:33) Finding Queer Teachers and Communities (44:36) Addressing Harm and Reclaiming Traditions   Resources:  https://www.kohenetavrashapiro.com/  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.   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT The post Holding Space with Avra Shapiro appeared first on Queer Theology.

We’ve known Rev. Jes Kast for a long time now and it was an absolute pleasure to have her on the pod this week talking queer, country, femme ministry! Jes is a minister of word and sacrament in the United Church of Christ and shares her journey of faith and queerness in this conversation. She discusses her upbringing in a conservative Christian environment and her deep connection to her identity as a queer femme. Jes emphasizes the importance of faith in her life and how it has shaped her understanding of herself and her role as a pastor. Jes reflects on her transition from big city femme to rural queer life and the sense of community she has found in her small town. Jes discusses the beauty and challenges of living in central Pennsylvania and the importance of community and care in small town life. She emphasizes the need to recognize the complexities and realities of both small town and big city life, and to avoid idealizing or romanticizing either.   Takeaways Faith played a significant role in Rev Jes Kast’s upbringing, and she found comfort and strength in her belief in a benevolent God. Jes’s journey of self-discovery as a queer femme led her to embrace her identity and find joy in expressing herself through fashion and artistry. As a pastor, Jes values the opportunity to journey with people through important moments in their lives and create meaningful rituals. Jes’s transition from big city femme to rural queer life has allowed her to reconnect with her small town roots and find a sense of community and safety. Central Pennsylvania is often overlooked and misunderstood, but it has its own unique beauty and interesting people. Small town life is more communal and caring, with a greater reliance on each other. Living in a rural community as an out queer clergy comes with its challenges, but also a deep sense of respect and support. Preaching in a small town requires a different approach, focusing on the realities and concerns of the community. It’s important to recognize the complexities and realities of both small town and big city life, and to avoid idealizing or romanticizing either. Visibility and representation are important, especially in rural areas where there may be fewer queer role models. Finding joy in the presence of sapphic farmers and connecting with the history and spirituality of figures like Hildegard von Bingen. Creating spaces for reflection and connection, such as an echo monastery, can bring joy and a sense of peace.   Chapters (03:06) Exploring Identity as a Queer Femme   (06:01) The Role of Faith in Jes’s Upbringing   (08:01) The Intersection of Faith, Femme, and Fashion   (13:28) Embracing Queerness and Finding Strength in Faith   (25:03) Small Town Faith and Queerness   (27:34) The Communal and Caring Nature of Small Town Life   (32:13) Navigating the Challenges of Being an Out Queer Clergy   (36:02) Preaching with Honesty and Authenticity in a Small Town   (43:21) Recognizing the Complexities of Small Town and Big City Life   (45:17) The Importance of Visibility and Representation in Rural Areas   (47:41) Finding Joy in the Presence of Sapphic Farmers   (52:36) Creating Spaces for Reflection and Connection: The Echo Monastery   Resources: Learn more at https://www.revjeskast.com/  Follow Jes on Instagram at @revjeskast  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. EPISODE TRANSCRIPT The post Queer Country Femme Ministry with Rev. Jes Kast appeared first on Queer Theology.

Rabbi Andy Kahn is on the podcast this week sharing their journey of self-discovery, faith, and the intersection of queerness and Judaism. They discuss their experience growing up Jewish, their path to becoming a rabbi, and their work in eco-theology. Our conversation delves into the concept of God, relationality, and the interconnectedness of all life forms. Rabbi Kahn discusses the interplay between God, ritual, and ethical practice, emphasizing the role of ritual in creating space for the divine. They also explore the practical impact of religious practices on daily life and the challenges of religious leadership in an anxious age.   Takeaways Rabbi Andy Kahn’s journey of self-discovery and the intersection of queerness and Judaism. The concept of eco-theology and the interconnectedness of all life forms. The idea of God as an entity within which all things exist, and the relationality between God and the ecosystem. The role of sacred space and rituals in Judaism, and the concept of God existing within the individual’s personal space. Ritual practice creates space for the divine and allows for a realignment of one’s presence in the world. Religious practices, such as prayer and blessings, lead to mindfulness and a broader perspective, impacting one’s behavior and affect. Empathy and reflection are essential in religious leadership, especially in times of disagreement and discord. The practical impact of religious practices extends to daily life, influencing one’s internal world and behavior, and contributing to a sense of purpose and positive affect.   Chapters (00:00) Exploring Identity, Faith, and Queerness (06:28) Eco-Theology and the Interconnectedness of Life (27:01) Sacred Space and the Presence of God (28:54) The Interplay of God and Ritual (42:13) Practical Impact of Religious Practices (47:46) Challenges of Religious Leadership   Resources: https://www.rabbiandruekahn.com/ 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.   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT The post The Feedback Loop of the Divine with Rabbi Andy Kahn appeared first on Queer Theology.

And the big announcement is- we’re writing a book!! We’re so excited that we can finally, officially announce our upcoming book, “Reading the Bible Through Queer Eyes.” This is a working title, the whole publishing process is full of edits and changes. But we’re excited, nervous, scared, ecstatic and we can’t wait to share it with our community. This book is going to offer a whole new way to read and engage with the Bible, drawing from our years of work with QueerTheology. So stay tuned as we go through the publishing process!    Takeaways The announcement of the upcoming book ‘Reading the Bible Through Queer Eyes’ is a significant milestone for Shannon and Brian, marking a new chapter in their work. Books play a vital role in the lives of the LGBTQ+ community, providing support, representation, and a sense of belonging. Community support and engagement are crucial for the success of the book, including pre-orders, requests at local bookstores and libraries, and participation in launch teams. The book aims to offer a new perspective on sacred stories from scripture, anchored in queer and trans experience, and to continue the work of the Queer Theology Podcast. The significance of the book extends beyond its content, as its success will pave the way for more queer and trans stories to be published and shared in the future.   Chapters (00:00) Announcing ‘Reading the Bible Through Queer Eyes’ (02:59) The Power of Books in the LGBTQ+ Community (07:56) Community Support for ‘Reading the Bible Through Queer Eyes’   Resources: 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.   PODCAST TRANSCRIPT The post Brian & Shay: A Big Announcement appeared first on Queer Theology.

Jennifer Knapp discusses her journey on the pod this week as a singer-songwriter in the contemporary Christian music industry and her subsequent shift to more mainstream music. She talks about the tension she felt between the inspiring messages of Christianity and the restrictive expectations and shame associated with it- particularly in relation to purity culture. Knapp shares her decision to leave the Christian music industry and the challenges she faced in reclaiming her own voice as an artist. She also highlights the importance of wrestling with faith and the need for diversity and inclusivity within Christianity. We discuss the importance of embracing one’s unique identity and finding community without the need for external validation  and she expresses her desire to create music that is contemplative, heart-centered, and reflective of personal prayers. Additionally, she discusses her theological studies and the responsibility she feels as a leader in faith spaces. Takeaways Jennifer Knapp experienced tension between the inspiring messages of Christianity and the restrictive expectations and shame associated with it, particularly in relation to purity culture. She made the decision to leave the contemporary Christian music (CCM) industry and reclaim her own voice as an artist. Knapp emphasizes the importance of wrestling with faith and exploring spirituality outside of the confines of a specific religious market. She advocates for diversity and inclusivity within Christianity, recognizing the need to acknowledge and appreciate different perspectives and experiences. Embrace your unique identity and focus on self-discovery rather than conforming to external expectations. Finding community becomes easier when you are confident in who you are and don’t feel the need to defend yourself constantly. Artistic growth and personal development can be nurtured in private, away from the public spotlight. Revisiting past work can be a meaningful exercise to reflect on personal growth and share that journey with others. There is a need for new, thoughtful, and contemplative music in faith spaces that goes beyond traditional hymns and contemporary worship songs. Take responsibility for creating the community and spaces you desire, whether it’s in art, faith, or any other aspect of life. Chapters (02:52) Introducing Jennifer Knapp and Her Background (03:00) Jennifer Knapp’s Introduction at a Fancy Queer Cocktail Dinner Party (08:07) Navigating Tension: Inspiring Messages vs. Restrictive Expectations in Christianity (13:08) Leaving the CCM Industry: Reclaiming My Voice as an Artist (24:19) Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity in Christianity (25:27) Embracing Identity and Finding Community (27:21) Artistic Growth and Personal Development (27:41) Revisiting the Past: The Re-recording of ‘Kansas’ (29:15) Creating Contemplative and Heart-Centered Music (41:21) Theological Studies and Responsibility in Faith Spaces (45:25) Taking Responsibility: Creating the Community You Desire   Resources: Get more information about Jennifer Knapp and her music at https://jenniferknapp.com/  Patreon community with Jennifer Knapp 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.   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT The post Growing Up with Jennifer Knapp appeared first on Queer Theology.