Transforming the Conversation: LGBTQIA Narratives, Theologies, and Action
Sacred Worth at Boston University School of Theology Presents:
“Transforming the Conversation: LGBTQIA Narratives, Theologies, and Action”
February 16, Thursday, 6-8 PM
February 23, Thursday, 6-8 PM
March 1, Thursday, 6-8 PM
Location: BU STH STH 325 (the Faculty Lounge)
- February 16, 2012—Panel One: Transformational Narrative(s). This panel will emphasize the experiences of LGBTQI individuals and straight allies who have fought for full inclusion in religious organizations. Panelists will share their personal narratives and offer insight into how they: understand the struggle for equality; collaborate with others in advocacy work; minister to—and dialogue with—congregants and conversational partners on both sides of LGBT issues; and engage in self-care.
Annie Britton – Boston University School of Theology; Ordained by the Church within a Church Movement.
Liz Douglass – Boston University School of Theology; Preparing for Ordination in the Metropolitan Boston Association of the United Church of Christ; Chapel Associate for LGBTQ and UCC Ministry at Marsh Chapel (Boston University)
Leigh Dry – Boston University School of Theology; Ordained United Methodist Minister; Serving Lexington United Methodist Church (Lexington, MA)
Chris Fike – Episcopal Divinity School; Ordained Episcopal Priest; Serving Christ Episcopal Church (Somerville, MA)
Amanda Harmeling – Boston University School of Theology; Preparing for Ordination in the Metropolitan Boston Association of the United Church of Christ; Past President of Sacred Worth (Boston University School of Theology)
- February 23, 2012—Panel Two: Transformational Theology. This panel will consist of theologians and scholars who can offer historical perspectives on the topic of queerness and religion. They will discuss contemporary queer theology as it currently stands and anticipate where the field may move in the future. Conversation will illuminate queer theology and explain how queer theory undergirds and strengthens the “ground-level” struggle for LGBTQIA inclusion. Focusing upon praxis, panelists will highlight the ways in which theory and action intersect.
- March 1, 2012—Panel Three: Transformational Action. This panel will address macro-level ecumenical and denominational priorities pertaining to the struggle for LGBTQIA equality. Panelists from a variety of backgrounds will share insight into the inclusion work that has been undertaken in their denominations and organizations. Which actions and approaches have worked? Which have been less successful? What challenges and opportunities exist? Dialogue also will address important ecumenical questions. Should different denominations be doing more together? If so, what should they do? Audience members will walk away from the evening with information about how they can become involved in denominational and ecumenical inclusion work.