Queer Theology

By Queer Theology / Brian G. Murphy & Shannon T.L. KearnsReligion & Spirituality Christianity

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Queer Theology episodes

September 22, 2024John Green Asks, “Why Religion?” We Answer
Recently John Green posted a YouTube preview for “Crash Course Religions,” and 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 alot 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
EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

The post John Green Asks, “Why Religion?” We Answer appeared first on Queer Theology.
25 min
September 15, 2024Habits For Changing Seasons
This time of year is a great time to do a bit of reflection and in this episode, we discuss the importance of taking time in the fall to reevaluate and reconnect with what matters to us. Taking this time for reflection, introspection, and planning for the future can be a great way to really look at what you want to keep and what you want to change moving into the end of the year. We share our personal experiences and discuss the significance of rituals, boundaries, and forgiveness in this process. The most important part of this is being intentional and gentle with yourself while engaging in this self-reflection.

Takeaways
Fall is a time for reflection, introspection, and planning for the future.
Taking time to reevaluate and reconnect with what matters to us is important.
Rituals, boundaries, and forgiveness play a significant role in this process.
Being intentional and gentle with oneself is crucial while engaging in self-reflection.

Chapters
(00:00) Reconnecting and Reflecting in the Fall
(11:27) The Importance of Rituals and Boundaries
(18:10) Navigating Forgiveness and Making Amends
(24:43) Being Intentional and Gentle with Oneself

Resources:
Rituals for Resistance & Resilience
Queers the Word – devotional available on Amazon.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 Habits For Changing Seasons appeared first on Queer Theology.
29 min
September 08, 2024Love is a Verb
We get into the concept of love and what it means to love well in this episode. We explore the idea that love is not just a feeling or a word, but an action that requires intentionality and commitment. We have to challenge the societal norms of prioritizing romantic relationships and biological families over other types of relationships. It is also so important to show up for others, by being intentional in our actions, and creating systems to support our relationships.

Takeaways
Love is not just a feeling or a word, but an action that requires intentionality and commitment.
Societal norms often prioritize romantic relationships and biological family over other types of relationships, but it is important to challenge and question these norms.
Showing up for others and being intentional in our actions are key aspects of loving well.
Creating systems and using tools like calendars and reminders can support our relationships and help us remember important dates and commitments.
Polyamory wisdom can offer valuable insights and practices for all types of relationships, including monogamous ones.
Clear communication, time management, and intentional living are essential for building and maintaining healthy and loving relationships.

Chapters
(00:35) Exploring the Concept of Love
(03:40) Challenging Societal Norms
(06:06) Being Loved Well and Loved Poorly
(11:10) Love Beyond Traditional Family Structures
(14:28) Prioritizing Relationships and Denigrating Friendships
(18:27) Love as Action and the Importance of Systems
(21:20) Intentionality and Upending Norms
(24:13) The Role of Systems in Loving Well
(26:18) Synergies Between Poly Wisdom, Faith, and Love
(29:37) Being Intentional and Explicit in Relationships
(33:19) Using Tools and Systems to Support Love
(35:27) Polyamory Wisdom for All Relationships
(35:48) Clear Communication, Time Management, and Intentional Living

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 Love is a Verb appeared first on Queer Theology.
35 min
September 01, 2024Undoing Shame
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.
23 min
August 25, 2024Poly Possibilities
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.
35 min
August 18, 2024Listening to the Wisdom of Your Body
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.
31 min
August 11, 2024Cultivating Curiosity [Listener Question]
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.
35 min
August 04, 2024Unlearning and Relearning
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.
29 min
July 28, 2024Holding Space with Avra Shapiro
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
There was a tech issue with our transcripts. We’re working on resolving this as quickly as possible.
The post Holding Space with Avra Shapiro appeared first on Queer Theology.
45 min
July 21, 2024Queer Country Femme Ministry with Rev. Jes Kast
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.
52 min

About Queer Theology

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The longest running podcast for and by LGBTQ Christians and other queer people of faith and spiritual seeker. Hosted by Fr. Shannon TL Kearns, a transgender Christian priest and Brian G. Murphy, a…