LGBTQ+ individuals have historically been excluded from many religious communities due to their gender identities and sexual orientations. While some progress has been made toward inclusivity in recent years, there is still much work to be done. In this article, I will explore how experiences of exclusion from sacred spaces can impact an individual's spiritual engagement and community involvement.
Exclusion from Sacred Spaces
Religious communities often have strict rules regarding gender identity and sexual orientation, which can lead to discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. This can create feelings of exclusion and isolation, leading to difficulties in finding a sense of belonging within the community.
A transgender person may feel uncomfortable attending services if they are expected to use the bathroom that corresponds with their birth sex rather than their current gender. A gay man may feel unwelcome if he is told his relationship is sinful or immoral. These experiences of exclusion can be especially harmful for those who rely on religion as a source of comfort and support during difficult times.
Impact on Spiritual Engagement
When LGBTQ+ individuals experience exclusion from sacred spaces, it can negatively affect their spirituality. They may become disillusioned with religion altogether or lose interest in participating in their faith community. They may also feel that they cannot connect with God or other deities because of their gender identities or sexual orientations. This can lead to a lack of spiritual nourishment and growth, leaving them feeling spiritually empty.
It can make it harder for them to find support during times of crisis or grief.
Impact on Community Participation
Experiences of exclusion from sacred spaces can also impact community participation. If LGBTQ+ individuals feel unwelcome in their faith community, they may choose not to attend events or volunteer. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. It can also lead to a loss of connection with others who share similar values and beliefs. When communities exclude certain groups, everyone suffers. We must work together to create inclusive spaces where all people feel welcomed and valued.
How do experiences of exclusion from sacred spaces affect spiritual engagement and community participation for LGBT individuals?
The experiences of exclusion from sacred spaces can have significant effects on both an individual's spiritual engagement and their involvement in the broader community. For LGBT individuals, who may already feel marginalized due to their sexual orientation and gender identity, this type of rejection can be especially painful and damaging.