Queer believers are those individuals who identify themselves as LGBTQ+ and also have some kind of religious faith or spirituality. Their belief system may be based on their own interpretation of religious teachings that include homosexuality, bisexuality, pansexuality, transgender identity, nonbinary gender, and intersex traits.
These interpretations may differ from traditional beliefs within the same religion.
Muslim queers may believe that Allah created them to exist in all genders and sexualities without condemning them for it. Similarly, Jewish queers may believe that God loves all people regardless of their gender identities and sexual orientations.
Some queer believers have reinterpreted the notion of sanctity to align with lived experience. They see holy texts, prayers, rituals, and practices in ways that promote inclusivity and acceptance rather than exclusion and judgment. In this regard, they emphasize the sacredness of all human bodies and relationships. They also highlight the holiness of intimacy between two people regardless of gender and genitalia. Queer believers often focus on how love and care can transform lives and make communities better places to live. They recognize that everyone deserves respect and dignity, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Queer believers may seek guidance from other spiritual sources such as psychics, tarot readers, mediums, shamans, and witches. These individuals may provide insights into their personal experiences and help them navigate their sexuality within a spiritual context. They may offer advice on how to practice self-love and embrace their unique identities while remaining true to themselves and their faith. Some queer believers may even use crystals, incense, herbs, and candles during religious ceremonies to enhance their connection with the divine.
Some queer believers may choose to create new traditions that reflect their own belief system.
They may hold same-sex wedding ceremonies, perform blessings for transgender individuals, celebrate nonbinary birthdays, and participate in drag shows that honor goddesses and gods. They may also organize retreats where they discuss their struggles with faith and sexuality and find support among like-minded individuals. By doing so, queer believers can build a sense of community and belonging within their religion.
Reinterpreting sanctity is an important aspect of being a queer believer. It allows them to explore their spiritual side while embracing their sexuality and gender identities. Queer believers strive to make their communities more inclusive and accepting through their actions and interpretations. This way, they promote diversity and acceptance within religious settings and encourage others to do the same.
In what ways do queer believers reinterpret the notion of sanctity to align with lived experience?
Queer believers may choose to reinterpret the notion of sanctity by focusing on how they view themselves as sacred beings created by God regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. They may also emphasize the importance of self-care and self-love, which can involve spiritual practices such as meditation, journaling, or prayer.