Recently, John Green posted a YouTube preview for "Crash Course Religions." Since this is something we are really passionate about (also Brian is a huge fan!), we answer his question, 'Why religion?' in this episode. We also discuss what it means to be a religious person and explore the idea that everyone worships something, whether it's a traditional religion or something else that guides their lives. It's about what you infuse with meaning that can turn it sacred and holy! We've been talking a lot about the importance of being intentional in practices and rituals and this is another example of why it is so important. We invite you to also cultivate a deeper sense of connection to the sacred in your life.

Takeaways

• Religion is not limited to traditional religious institutions; everyone worships something that guides their lives.

• Being intentional about our practices and rituals is important, regardless of our religious identification.

• Queer experiences and LGBTQ+ community events can be seen as sacred and have religious significance.

• Cultivating a deeper sense of connection to the sacred in our lives can bring meaning and purpose.

Chapters

(0:38) Brian's confession: Being a "nerdfighter"

(1:14) Crash Course series on religion and its relevance

(3:36) Helping LGBTQ+ folks heal from religious harm

(5:21) The idea of worship and its broader meaning

(9:32) Importance of replacing old beliefs with new intentional stories

(17:00) Queerness as holy and sacred practices in queer culture

(22:03) Encouragement to practice intentional rituals and find meaning

Resources:

• Crash Course Religion Preview by John Green

• Rituals for Resistance & Resilience online course

• 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