Monastic or contemplative traditions are often associated with abstinence from worldly pleasures and pursuit of inner peace through meditation, prayer, and devotion to God. They offer guidance for those seeking enlightenment and liberation from attachment, ego, and desire.
Such traditions may be challenging for queer individuals who experience gender nonconformity, attraction to same-sex partners, and exploration of their sexuality within religious communities. Queer spiritual seekers may feel alienated and marginalized due to their identities, which can hinder their spiritual growth and development. This essay proposes ways that monastic or contemplative traditions can support queer spiritual seekers and foster inclusion and belonging.
The Rise of LGBTQ+ Spirituality
The rise of LGBTQ+ spirituality is a growing phenomenon as more people seek to integrate their sexual orientation and gender identity into their spiritual practices. While some traditional religions have condemned homosexuality and gender variance, others have embraced them as part of their teachings and rituals.
The Gay Buddhist Fellowship in California promotes LGBTQ+ inclusivity by offering retreats and workshops focused on mindfulness and meditation, while Unitarian Universalism has ordained openly gay ministers since 1970. Such initiatives show that spirituality can transcend cultural and societal norms, allowing queer individuals to express themselves fully without fear of judgment or rejection.
Adaptations to Monastic Traditions
Adaptations to monastic traditions can create a safe and welcoming space for queer spiritual seekers. Some monasteries, like the Dharmachakra Centre in London, have implemented policies and guidelines that encourage diversity and acceptance. Their website states that they welcome all genders, races, ages, abilities, and sexual orientations to participate in their programs, including meditation sessions and community service. Other monasteries, such as Ananda Sangha in California, offer LGBTQ+ retreats and workshops that explore sexuality and intimacy within a spiritual context. These adaptations allow queer individuals to experience contemplative practice with peers who share similar identities and experiences.
Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness practices are another way that monastic traditions can support queer spiritual seekers. These techniques involve focusing attention on the present moment without judgment or attachment. By cultivating awareness and non-judgmental observation of thoughts, emotions, and sensations, queer individuals can learn to accept their sexual orientation and gender identity without shame or guilt. Meditation, breathing exercises, and body scans can help them develop self-love and compassion towards others.
The Gay Buddhist Fellowship promotes mindfulness through sitting meditation, walking meditation, and yoga classes tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Community Building
Community building is essential for creating a supportive environment for queer spiritual seekers. Monasteries can host gatherings and discussions where members can openly share their experiences and perspectives. This creates a sense of belonging and solidarity, allowing participants to feel seen and heard.
Spiritual mentorship programs can provide guidance and encouragement for queer individuals seeking enlightenment and liberation from societal expectations. Such programs can connect queer individuals with like-minded peers and role models who understand their struggles and challenges.
Monastic and contemplative traditions have much to offer queer spiritual seekers, but adaptations are necessary to create an inclusive and welcoming space. Adaptations such as policy changes, mindfulness practices, and community building can promote diversity and acceptance while fostering personal growth and development. Through these initiatives, queer individuals can fully express themselves within a spiritual context and access the wisdom and insights offered by monastic teachings.
How can monastic or contemplative traditions be adapted to support queer spiritual seekers?
Meditation, mindfulness, and self-discipline are core elements of many monastic and contemplative traditions that have long been used as tools for personal growth, enlightenment, and wellbeing. These practices may also benefit queer spiritual seekers by helping them cultivate a deeper sense of acceptance, compassion, and nonjudgmental awareness towards themselves and others.