Queer Theology and UMC General Conference with Jenny Bates

In this episode of Radical Sacred, Jenny and Phil are joined by Jenny Bates a United Methodist in North Texas who is finishing up graduate school at Brite Divinity and recently was approved for Commissioning as a clergyperson in the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church.They discuss how Jenny used the Radical Sacred episode on the Sacred Masculine as a resource for a pub theology she hosted, queer theology, and the United Methodist Church General Conference that officially started yesterday.Throughout the episode, Jenny emphasizes the need for inclusivity and the importance of holding space for different perspectives and experiences in the United Methodist Church and beyond. She shares her journey of exploring her own gender identity and the support she receives from her chosen queer family.In the episode she states, "Queer theology showed me that I do have sacred roots," what has helped you identify your sacred roots?Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Our previous episode on The Sacred MasculineQueering Wesley, Queering the Church by Keegan OrsinskiThe Revised Social Principles of the United Methodist ChurchThe Advanced Daily Christian Advocate for the UMC General ConferenceAlso, if you are a United Methodist looking to follow what is happening at General Conference follow these accounts:The Queer Clergy CacusRev. Maria Dixon HallRev. Jeremy SmithScott AtnipChapters:00:00 Introduction Jenny Bates and her use of Pub Theology07:55 Positive Masculinity and Biblical Examples34:00 Exploring Sacredness through Queer Theology51:58 Jenny's Journey of Gender Exploration59:09 The Importance of Community in the Journey