For the month of June I am highlighting queer friends who grew up in or spent significant time in conservative evangelical spaces. Earlier this week we heard from a talented contributor about her experience growing up with Hope and Dread.
Following these weekly posts I’m sharing resources for thinking more deeply about your own response. For this week I am offering a two songs to put on your playlist, two books that explore changing your mind on Queer affirmation, and an organization offering support for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.
Music:
This week’s contributor suggested these songs to me and I’ve been listening to them ever since. I asked them to explain each song to you below:
Star Tripping, Kevin Atwater (with Allison Ponthier)
Kevin Atwater is one of the most impactful singer-songwriters of the decade. He manages to capture devastating queer experiences and feelings, pair them with beautiful acoustic melodies, and open the eyes and hearts of listeners. While all of Kevin’s songs are moving, “star tripping” is especially impactful to me. This song is for anyone who’s had to hide who they truly are. An anthem for queer kids who fall for people that fear religion more than they could ever love you. Good stuff.
VBS, Lucy Dacus
It’s not surprising that for many queer folk, memories of attending Christian summer camps and VBS (Vacation Bible School) are a little complicated. There are true instances of joy there– in the campfires and leadership and worship, but it’s tainted with the undertones of shame and fear. “VBS” by Lucy Dacus manages to reflect this dynamic brilliantly, describing how she was “hedging her bets” at getting into heaven through Vacation Bible School, despite the secrets she kept hidden “like peach pits in your gut.”
Books:
Changing our Mind, David Gushee
This wonderful book, written by a Christian ethicist, is helpful for Christians wanting to explore rethinking their relationship to LGBTQ+ individuals.
Still Christian: Following Jesus Out of American Evangelicalism, David Gushee
If you find the previous book helpful, this is the author’s story told in a more personal memoir style. I found it helpful for understanding how Gushee wrestled with his beliefs and came to new conclusions.
Organizations:
From this week’s contributor: “It’s a great organization I volunteered for. It offers supportive discussion spaces and information for parents/family members of queer kids.”