Contemporary religious communities often study historical figures who lived according to their faith's teachings and exhibited extraordinary behavior that was considered holy or saintly.
Saint Teresa of Ávila was known for her mystical experiences involving both physical and emotional intimacy, while Saint Francis of Assisi is said to have been drawn to men before he became devoted to Christ.
Historians and theologians disagree on how to interpret these examples of queer sanctity, which raise questions about what it means to be a "queer" person in religion. This article will explore various perspectives on this issue and provide insights into how contemporary religious communities can learn from historical figures whose lives are interpreted as queer sanctity.
One way to interpret queer sanctity is through the lens of sexual orientation and gender identity. Some scholars argue that saints like Teresa and Francis were simply expressing their natural inclinations toward same-sex relationships. Others suggest that they may have experienced transgender identities or non-binary gender expression. Regardless of the interpretation, it is clear that these individuals had unique spiritual experiences that defied societal norms and challenged traditional understandings of holiness. By examining these examples, religious communities can reconsider their assumptions about what it means to be "holy" and embrace diversity within their own congregations.
Another way to view queer sanctity is through the lens of eroticism. Scholar Linda Woodhead argues that saints like Teresa and Francis engaged in ecstatic forms of sexual union with God, which were often described using erotic language.
Teresa's famous work The Interior Castle describes her relationship with Jesus as an intense physical and emotional union. In modern times, some churches have embraced similar practices, such as Pentecostalists who use trance-like states to achieve intimacy with God.
Others view such behaviors as blasphemous or deviant and do not allow them within their faith traditions. By studying historical examples of queer sanctity, religious communities can explore new ways to connect with God and each other.
Contemporary religious communities can learn from the example of queer saints by emphasizing the importance of relationships and community over individualism. Saint Francis's commitment to poverty, simplicity, and service to others was based on his belief in a shared humanity and interdependence. Similarly, Teresa prioritized compassion for those she encountered, even going so far as to found convents to care for marginalized women. These values are essential for creating healthy religious communities that promote justice, equality, and mutual support.
Studying historical figures whose lives are interpreted as queer sanctity provides valuable insights into what it means to be a holy person in religion. Contemporary religious communities should embrace diversity and reexamine traditional understandings of holiness, while also emphasizing the importance of relationships and community. By doing so, they can create more inclusive, just, and vibrant spiritual spaces for all people.
What can contemporary religious communities learn from historical figures whose lives are interpreted as queer sanctity?
Contemporary religious communities can learn various lessons from the historical figures whose lives are interpreted as queer sanctity. The most important thing that they should learn is that the identity of such individuals should not be the reason for their exclusion from the community or denial of leadership roles. These communities should also acknowledge and accept these people's sexual orientation openly.