What is spiritual apostasy?
Spiritual apostasy refers to the process of renouncing one's belief in a religious system, especially when it comes to the rejection of traditional religion. For many people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex or questioning (LGBTQ), spiritual apostasy can be an incredibly difficult experience that often involves leaving their faith community behind. In some cases, this may mean losing family members or friends who are also part of that community. It can also involve feeling alienated from one's culture and identity, as many religious communities view LGBTQ individuals as sinful or immoral.
Leaving a faith community can bring up feelings of guilt, shame and confusion about one's own beliefs.
What does spiritual apostasy mean for an LGBT person leaving or re‑negotiating their faith community?
For those who leave or re-negotiate their faith community due to their sexuality or gender identity, spiritual apostasy can be a challenging time of transition. One common theme among those who have gone through this process is feeling ostracized by their former faith group. This can lead to loneliness and isolation, which can make it even harder to find acceptance elsewhere. Some LGBTQ individuals may feel that they must choose between being true to themselves and maintaining their connection with their faith community. Others may decide to stay within their faith group but modify their beliefs so that they no longer align with traditional doctrine.
What future pathways of returning or reforming faith might appear?
There are several potential paths forward after experiencing spiritual apostasy. For some people, this may include finding a new faith community that is more accepting of LGBTQ individuals. Others may continue to practice their religion in secret, while still others may simply abandon all organized religion altogether. Some may try to reconcile their sexual orientation or gender identity with the teachings of their former faith group, while still others may work toward creating a new, more inclusive version of their faith system.
Each individual will need to navigate their own unique journey and make choices that best fit their needs and values.
What does spiritual apostasy mean for an LGBT person leaving or re‑negotiating their faith community, and what future pathways of returning or reforming faith might appear?
Spiritual apostasy can be defined as the process of rejecting one's religious beliefs or faith. For an LGBT individual who has left their faith community due to homophobia or transphobia from fellow congregants or church leaders, spiritual apostasy may involve a deep sense of rejection and grief. The process of leaving behind a faith that was once a source of comfort and belonging can be difficult emotionally, causing feelings of isolation and loneliness.