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 to writing was influenced by his mother’s struggles as a writer.
• He discovered his passion for writing later in life after realizing it was his true calling.
• Young adult literature often lacked representation of LGBTQ+ experiences during Eliot’s youth.
• Eliot’s latest book explores themes of love and identity in a sci-fi setting.
• The creative process involves drawing inspiration from various sources while creating something original.
• Queer representation in literature is crucial for the mental health of LGBTQ+ youth.
• Eliot’s work has been positively received, with a growing demand for LGBTQ+ narratives.
• The adaptation of his book into a film is an exciting opportunity for broader reach.
• Eliot believes in the power of stories to provide hope and connection.
• He continues to be inspired by the need for inclusive narratives in today’s world.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Eliot and His Journey

(02:57) Eliot’s Path to Becoming a Writer

(06:01) Influences and Inspirations in Young Adult Literature

(09:05) Exploring Eliot’s Latest Book: *The Darkness Outside*

(12:05) The Creative Process: From Inspiration to Storytelling

(14:53) The Importance of Queer Representation in Literature

(17:48) Adapting Books for Film: The Journey Ahead

(20:46) Finding Joy and Inspiration in Writing

(24:05) Closing Thoughts and Future Connections

Resources:

• Preorder The Brightness Between Us by Eliot Schrefer
• Learn more about Eliot Schrefer at https://www.eliotschrefer.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

The post Imagining New Worlds an interview with Eliot Schrefer appeared first on Queer Theology.

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 community.

Takeaways

• Ann Russo identifies as a queer therapist passionate about the intersection of identity, trauma, and spirituality.
• Growing up in a queer household in the 80s was challenging due to societal prejudice and fear of violence.
• Ann initially resisted her queerness, wanting to ‘pray the gay away’ until she embraced her identity in high school.
• Religion was not a positive force in Ann’s upbringing, leading to curiosity about its teachings later in life.
• Ann immersed herself in conservative Christian spaces to understand the messaging against LGBTQ individuals.
• The transition from fear to acceptance involved social justice activism and creating safe spaces for LGBTQ youth.
• Religious trauma can create barriers for LGBTQ individuals seeking acceptance in progressive religious spaces.
• Support systems, including chosen family and older queer mentors, are crucial for healing and acceptance.
• Finding a therapist who understands the intersection of queerness and religion is essential for LGBTQ individuals.
• Transformation stories highlight the resilience of LGBTQ individuals and the importance of community support.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Queer Identity and Therapy

(03:02) Growing Up in a Queer Household

(05:47) The Intersection of Religion and Queerness

(09:01) Navigating Religious Spaces as a Queer Person

(12:00) Transitioning from Fear to Acceptance

(15:03) Understanding Religious Trauma

(17:54) The Importance of Support Systems

(21:13) Finding a Therapist for LGBTQ Issues

(23:56) Stories of Transformation

(27:10) The Role of Intergenerational Relationships

(30:06) Closing Thoughts and Resources

Resources:

• Learn more about Ann Russo’s work at https://www.annrusso.org/ 

• Accessible therapy at https://www.amrtherapy.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

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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.

Takeaways

• Chris was raised in a religious family with conflicting beliefs.
• He experienced religious trauma and internalized homophobia.
• His coming out journey was deeply intertwined with love and acceptance.
• Chris emphasizes the importance of awareness in parenting.
• Parents can inadvertently perpetuate fear-based associations.
• Books and open conversations can help educate children.
• Creating safe spaces for discussions is crucial.
• Understanding societal messages is key to supporting LGBTQ+ kids.
• Chris’s book aims to help parents change harmful narratives.
• Healing from religious trauma is a journey that requires introspection.

Chapters

(02:40) Chris’s Journey of Self-Discovery

(10:13) Reconnecting with Faith and Spirituality

(16:32) Understanding Religious Trauma

(22:30) The Importance of Awareness in Parenting

(27:54) Supporting LGBTQ+ Kids: Practical Strategies

(35:00) Conclusion and Resources

Resources:

• Learn more at https://www.aroadtriptolove.com/
• Raising LGBTQ Allies: A Parent’s Guide to Changing the Messages from the Playground by Chris Tompkins
• 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 Importance of Visibility An Interview with Chris Tompkins appeared first on Queer Theology.

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 of queer representation in media and the importance of finding joy in everyday moments. 

Takeaways

• ‘Somebody Somewhere’ is about authenticity and real life.
• Joel’s character reflects the complexities of queerness in small towns.
• Faith in the show is portrayed as a source of community, not oppression.
• The journey of faith for Joel is more about ethics than belief.
• Jeff’s personal experiences shaped his understanding of community and queerness.
• The representation of queer characters has evolved significantly in media.
• There is a need for more diverse queer representation on screen.
• Joy can be found in simple, everyday moments.
• The show challenges traditional portrayals of faith and queerness.
• Community and kindness are central themes in both the show and Jeff’s life.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction to Jeff Hiller and Somebody Somewhere

(02:49) Exploring Joel’s Character and Authenticity

(06:03) Faith, Community, and Queerness in Small Towns

(09:03) The Journey of Faith and Ethics

(11:59) Personal Experiences with Queerness and Community

(15:03) The Evolution of Queer Representation on Screen

(18:03) Joy in Everyday Life and Closing Thoughts

Resources:

• Follow Jeff on IG @boomboomhiller
• Watch Season 3 of Somebody Somewhere on HBO
• 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 Cool Christians an Interview Jeff Hiller (Somebody Somewhere) appeared first on Queer Theology.

As we head into the Christmas season, we invite y’all to really explore the meaning and significance of Advent. There is so much richness and depth to this tradition and (especially now!) it is a moment to reflect on what our role in this world is. We discuss the themes of waiting, anticipation, and introspection that characterize this season, as well as the importance of recognizing the realities of the world and dreaming of a better future. There is so much potential for personal and communal transformation during Advent. 

Takeaways

• Advent is a time of preparation leading up to Christmas.
• It involves themes of waiting, anticipation, and introspection.
• Advent invites us to reflect on what is not working in the world.
• The season encourages dreaming about justice and peace.
• Rituals during Advent help make visible what is not yet tangible.
• Advent is a liminal space for personal and communal transformation.
• The end of the year is a time for intention setting and reflection.
• Queering Advent allows for a deeper connection to spirituality.
• The journey through Advent can be inclusive for all backgrounds.
• Community engagement during Advent enhances the experience.

Chapters

(00:00) The Significance of Advent

(10:12) Advent as a Time for Reflection and Introspection

(18:11) Queering the Advent Experience

Resources:

• Join the Sanctuary Collective Community and be part of our Queering Advent event
• Soul Safe and Rewrite Your Story are both on-demand workshops available in Spiritual Study Hall 

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 Misunderstood Mystical Meaning of Advent appeared first on Queer Theology.

It’s that time of year when we often see family and need to navigate complex family dynamics. During the holiday season, this is particularly true for queer individuals. We talk about the importance of setting boundaries, and the necessity of prioritizing personal comfort over traditional expectations. We’re big proponents of self-care! And that can definitely look like setting clear boundaries that make you feel safe and happy during a time that can be fraught with anxiety and discomfort.

Takeaways

• The holiday season can evoke feelings of angst and anxiety for many individuals, especially around family dynamics.
• Setting firm boundaries can help mitigate holiday-related stress.
• Even after coming out, feelings of discomfort around family can persist.
• Juggling multiple family traditions can increase holiday stress.
• It’s important to prioritize personal comfort over traditional expectations during the holidays.
• Choosing to spend the holidays in a way that feels good is not selfish.
• Self-care and introspection are crucial during the holiday season.
• It’s okay to not participate in family traditions that feel uncomfortable.
• Small changes can lead to a more positive holiday experience.
• The process of navigating family dynamics is ongoing and requires experimentation.

Chapters

(00:00) Navigating Family Dynamics During the Holidays

(05:59) The Impact of Identity on Family Interactions

(11:01) Choosing Personal Comfort Over Tradition

(14:52) Self-Care and Reflection During the Holiday Season

Resources:

• Join the Sanctuary Collective Community and be part of our Queering Advent event
• Soul Safe and Rewrite Your Story are both on-demand workshops available in Spiritual Study Hall 

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

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We’re queering the Book of Ruth in this episode of the Queer Theology Podcast. And y’all, this one can get really scandalous! We  delve into its themes of agency, chosen family, and the complexities of tradition. Then we also discuss how the narrative can be interpreted through a queer lens, highlighting the scandalous elements often sanitized in traditional readings. Sometimes you gotta engage with scripture in a way that acknowledges the messiness and complexities to really get to the good stuff! As we head into Advent, this can be a time of deep reflection and looking at scripture through a queer lens can be a liberating practice. 

Takeaways

• The Book of Ruth contains themes of agency and vulnerability.
• Ruth’s actions can be seen as scandalous yet empowering.
• Chosen family is a significant aspect of the narrative.
• The story challenges traditional interpretations of relationships.
• Sanitizing scripture does a disservice to its complexity.
• Queer readings of scripture can reveal deeper meanings.
• Tradition is often rooted in messy and complicated stories.
• Engaging with scripture requires acknowledging its messiness.
• Community journeys can enhance spiritual reflection.
• Advent offers a time for introspection and preparation.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Context of the Conversation

(01:12) Exploring the Book of Ruth

(03:30) Queering the Text: Scandal and Agency

(06:56) Chosen Family and Queer Relationships

(11:51) The Messiness of Tradition and Scripture

(15:35) Invitation to Engage with Scripture

(16:42) Queering Advent: A Community Journey

Resources:

• Join the Sanctuary Collective Community and be part of our Queering Advent event

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

TRANSCRIPT

The post The Messy Scandal of Ruth appeared first on Queer Theology.

a brief reflection from Brian on fear, grief, and tapping into the power of our communities.

if you’d like a space to share / vent / grieve / process / be in community / otherwise be together with other LGBTQ+ of faith, I opened up comments on this reflection over in the public area of our learning and community hub. you’ll just need a free account to comment.

please come gather together to see and be seen, to hold and be held.

we are in this together.

much love,
brian (& shannon)

TRANSCRIPT

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It’s that time of year again when we have celebrations around remembrance and death. In this episode, we delve into the themes of death, remembrance, and the significance of rituals during this reflective time of year. We explore the meanings behind All Saints Day and All Souls Day, the importance of honoring those who have passed, and how queer communities have created their own rituals of remembrance. We share some of our own personal experiences of grief and loss and how rituals have been a resource of comfort for us. As we head into the upcoming Advent season, we’re going to really dive into the intention behind rituals!

Takeaways

• Death and remembrance are significant themes during this time of year.
• All Saints Day honors officially canonized saints, while All Souls Day remembers all who have died.
• The veil between worlds is considered thin during this season, prompting reflection.
• Trans Day of Remembrance highlights violence against the trans community.
• Queer and trans individuals often create their own rituals to honor their community.
• Remembering our lineages and communities is essential for personal growth.
• Grief can be navigated through intentional remembrance and community support.
• Rituals do not have to be complicated; simple acts can hold great meaning.
• Advent offers a time for reflection and intention in our lives.
• Creating personal rituals can help in processing grief and loss.

Chapters

(00:00) Exploring Death and Remembrance

(04:42) Queering All Saints and All Souls Day

(07:53) The Importance of Lineage and Community

(10:52) Navigating Grief and Loss

(14:55) Rituals for Remembering and Healing

(18:41) Advent: A Time for Intention and Reflection

Resources:

• Join the Sanctuary Collective Community and be part of our Queering Advent event

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

TRANSCRIPT

The post Remembering Who We Come From appeared first on Queer Theology.

The process of healing is a journey. And with a journey, you have to be willing to take the time to do what feels comfortable for you, but also push yourself. In this episode, we discuss the journey of healing, particularly in the context of coping with emotional challenges. We explore the importance of taking things slowly, the role of storytelling in healing, and the necessity of reflection after experiences. You gotta make the time for reflection and self-care! For us, journaling has been a sustainable practice to work through discomfort that helps lead to long-term emotional well-being. 

Takeaways

• Healing is a journey, not a race.
• It’s important to go slowly in the healing process.
• Stories shape our understanding of spiritual practices.
• Redefining success can help in the healing journey.
• Discomfort can be a part of growth.
• Reflection helps us learn from our experiences.
• Give yourself time to process and heal.
• You can push yourself, but know your limits.
• Journaling can provide clarity and understanding.
• Sustainable practices are key for long-term healing.

Chapters

(0:00) The Journey of Healing and Coping

(7:15) Navigating Discomfort and Growth

(14:56) Reflection and Learning from Experiences

(22:42) Sustainable Practices for Long-Term Healing

Resources:

• Register for the journaling workshop, Rewrite Your Story
• 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

The post Healing When It’s Hard appeared first on Queer Theology.

In this conversation, we explore the profound impact of storytelling on personal identity, community building, and cultural narratives. We discuss how stories have been a fundamental part of human experience, shaping self-perception and fostering connections and community among individuals. It’s super important to craft your own personal narrative because of the transformative power of sharing those stories with others. Whether it’s a coffee chat with friends or delivering a sermon, having a well crafted story can make a huge difference.

Takeaways

• Stories are deeply human and have been told since ancient times.
• The narratives we internalize shape our self-perception and values.
• Storytelling can change hearts and minds more effectively than facts alone.
• Personal stories can foster community and connection, especially in marginalized groups.
• Crafting narratives is essential for effective communication and social justice advocacy.
• Everyone has a story, and storytelling is a universal human experience.
• The act of storytelling helps us make sense of our lives and experiences.
• Writing for oneself is a vital step before sharing stories publicly.
• Workshops can help individuals refine their storytelling skills and discover impactful narratives.
• Journaling can serve as a grounding practice for personal reflection and narrative development.

Chapters

(0:00) The Power of Stories in Human Experience

(3:51) Personal Connections Through Storytelling

(9:21) The Role of Storytelling in Community Building

(15:04) Crafting Personal Narratives for Impact

(18:40) Journaling and Storytelling Workshop Introduction

Resources:

• Register for the journaling workshop, Rewrite Your Story
• 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

The post The Stories That Shape Us appeared first on Queer Theology.