Coming Back to Life — Rev. Krissy is a politically queer UCC pastor - a podcast by Avery Smith

Like Lazarus resurrected by Jesus, Rev. Krissy has moved from a stifling tomb — a church where they could not be openly queer & politically active — into the abundant life of authentic self and fighting for the liberation of all.

Krissy is a pastor and chaplain in the United Church of Christ who loves their supportive spouse, children, and church; and who sees a message of good news for all whom the world calls shameful in the parable of the father with two sons (i.e. the parable of the prodigal son).

Click here for an episode transcript.

Talking Points:

(0:00 - 4:54) Introducing Krissy — UCC pastor and chaplain in St. Louis

(4:55 - 8:36) Krissy's family: a supportive spouse who doesn't get gender in general; supportive adult children

(8:37 - 11:08) The United Church of Christ: variety of beliefs; full participation of neurodivergent persons & people with mental illness

(11:09 - 14:50) Past work at a conservative suburban church where they couldn't be out; seminary friend who affirmed Krissy's queerness

(14:51 - 18:22) Lazarus coming back to life; Krissy coming back to life with a queer-affirming, social justice oriented congregation

(18:23 - 21:03) Made for freedom vs. constricting pulpits & gender boxes

(21:04 - 29:06) "Queer" as a radical liberationist term; "slurs" are our shields & power sources; passing unnecessary

(29-07 - 38:32) More on Krissy's ministry: chaplain for children with trauma; politically active church

(38:33 - 43:21) Encouragement in a messy, suffering world

(43:22 - 51:16) The parable of the man with two sons (i.e. the prodigal son) — letting go of social cleanliness & honor

(51:17 - 54:11) "It's about coming back to life" – the good news in Christianity for oppressed peoples

(54:12 - end) Breaking down barriers, drawing the circle wider

Find Krissy at rev-krissy.tumblr.com; or visit their church website: www.epiphanyucc.org

______



Blessed  Are the Binary Breakers is part of the Rock Candy Podcast  Network. Find more shows, such as Bible Bash, at www.rockcandyrecordings.com.

This show's theme song is "Aetherium" by Leah Horn. This episode also  makes use of "Gold Beamer" by Mother Hood.

Further episodes of Blessed Are the Binary Breakers

Further podcasts by Avery Smith

Website of Avery Smith