Poetry as Prayer: Encountering the Trans-cendent God
Sunday October 27th 2024 at 3:30pm Pacific/ 6:30pm Eastern
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Many people feel as if God might be hiding themself, or at least be a mystery too big to approach or know. For some, especially for the LGBTQIA+ community, the idea that they are made in the image and likeness of this God might seem improbable or even beyond imagination. Luckily, poetry has the ability to stretch the imagination, open doors to fresh possibilities, and make the everyday new. In our time together we will see how poetry can help us experience our Loving Creator in new ways, give shape to our longings, and revive our spirits. No previous writing experience is necessary. All are welcome in this space.
Jory Mickelson (they/them) is a trans, non-binary Lutheran pastor in Northwest Washington. They are the author of three collections of poetry, most recently All This Divide (Spuyten Duyvil Publishing, 2024). They have received awards and fellowships for their writing and in 2022 were named a Joel R. Workin Memorial Scholar, which recognizes LGBTQIA+ people working for justice. |
Will Someone Please Think of the Children?
Sunday January 19th 2025 at 3:30pm Pacific/ 6:30pm Eastern
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There is trepidation of various kinds about what and how to teach kids about gender and sexuality and the intersection between these topics and faith. What is the theological basis for attempting this? What are some things to consider when doing so? What does it make sense to avoid? Together we will explore a theology of childhood and faith development that is inclusive of the wide variety of experiences of gender, bodies, relationships, family structures, and queer and trans identities.
Caitlin Reilley Beck (they/she/he)
I am a fat, queer, neurodivergent, polyamorous, genderqueer, white settler who lives on stolen Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-waututh land. I am currently one of the co-pastors of Open Way Community Church and a board member and song leader for Music that Makes Community. I cannot be stopped from acquiring an ever-increasing list of special interests and hobbies including drumming, grassroots ecumenism, photography, intersectionality, liturgical geekery, values based administration, singing in harmony, empowering young people, godparenting, eating french fries, jigsaw puzzling, making art, and being a feminist killjoy. I believe that every voice is important in the song of God’s creation and I aim to empower people of all ages to use their voices as leaders in their churches and communities by first of all learning how to listen. |