Religious Trauma, Queer Identities: Mapping the Complexities of Being LGBTQA+ in Evangelical Churches

This book explores the complexities of identity development, religious traumatization, and creating safe faith spaces for LGBTQA+ people in the Evangelical context, offering a critical analysis of church structures and mechanisms of trauma and the voices of LGBTQA+ people who have experienced harm.

Format: Hardback
Length: 237 pages
Publication date: 07 April 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

In a world that often sees "queer" and "Christian" as opposing forces, this book delves into the intricate complexities of identity formation, religious trauma, and the challenging task of creating inclusive faith spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals can find healing, especially within the Evangelical context.

To begin, Joel Hollier takes us on a historical journey of Evangelicalism, providing a backdrop for the current landscape of the "culture war" that we find ourselves navigating. He then explores the experiences of gender/sexuality and religious/spiritual identity development, grounding them in an evolving theoretical framework.

Finally, Hollier offers a comprehensive critique of Evangelical church structures and mechanisms of trauma that hinder the healing process, along with potential sources of healing. At the heart of this work are the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals, whose stories weave together a deeper understanding of the harm the Church has perpetrated and the path forward.

Through their narratives, we witness the struggles, resilience, and hope of those who have faced discrimination and marginalization within the Christian community. We see the ways in which the Church has perpetuated harmful beliefs and practices, and the urgent need for change.

However, this book also offers hope and inspiration. It showcases the stories of LGBTQ+ individuals who have found healing and belonging within the Evangelical community, as well as those who have worked tirelessly to create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people to worship and connect.

We learn about the importance of intersectionality, the need to dismantle oppressive systems and structures, and the power of empathy and compassion in fostering healing and reconciliation.

In conclusion, this book is a vital contribution to the ongoing conversation about LGBTQ+ identity, religious trauma, and the role of the Church in fostering inclusive faith spaces. It offers a nuanced and empathetic perspective, highlighting the complexities and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals within the Evangelical context. Through the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals and the insights of scholars and activists, this book provides a roadmap for healing, transformation, and the creation of a more inclusive and just world for all.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031277108
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023