How do queer believers experience divine intimacy within traditions that have historically denied the sanctity of their love?
The question asks about how queer people who believe in a deity can experience intimate moments with them despite religious teachings that say otherwise. Queer believers face unique challenges when trying to reconcile their identity with their faith. This article explores some ways they may navigate this tension and find meaningful spiritual connections.
One way is through interpretation of scripture. Some interpretations allow for same-sex relationships or recognize gender fluidity as part of God's creation.
Rabbi Denise Eger suggests that "God created the world and all beings in it, including LGBTQ+ individuals." These interpretations affirm queer believers' identities while still adhering to tradition.
Another approach is finding community within a denomination that accepts their sexuality. Many denominations welcome LGBTQ+ individuals and support their faith journeys.
Many Mormons attend support groups called Affirmation, which help them navigate church culture. They also participate in Pride marches and protest anti-LGBTQ legislation.
Some explore alternative rituals outside of mainstream religion.
Queer Spiritual Experience (QSE) provides workshops and retreats for queer believers. Their mission is to create spaces where queers can connect with each other and the Divine without shame or judgement. Similarly, QUEERABILITY offers online courses on Queer Theology and LGBTQ+ spirituality.
Some pursue private practices like meditation or prayer. By connecting with God directly, they experience divine intimacy despite religious disapproval. In meditation, they seek union with the divine, knowing that love comes from within. Through prayer, they express gratitude for life's joys and sorrows.
Queer believers can find ways to reconcile their faith with their identity by interpreting scripture, finding welcoming communities, exploring alternative rituals, and practicing privately. While this may not solve the tension entirely, it offers solace and guidance as they navigate complex belief systems.
How do queer believers experience divine intimacy within traditions that have historically denied the sanctity of their love?
Apart from the fact that some faith traditions explicitly affirm same-sex relationships as sinful and unholy, there are others that view God's grace as universal and inclusive, which means no one should be excluded because of their sexual orientation, including the LGBTQ+ community.