Finding Sanctuary in Progressive Theology with Liz Coolidge Jenkins

Leaving the Church to Find God

Have you ever felt the ground shift beneath your feet as your beliefs and the world you knew began to unravel? Liz Coolidge Jenkins, a powerhouse of thought on faith and feminism, joins us to recount her extraordinary evolution from conservative evangelicalism to a champion of LGBTQ affirming theology. Her book "Nice Churchy Patriarchy: Reclaiming Women's Humanity from Evangelicalism," serves as a backdrop for our rich dialogue on the profound moments that redefine one's understanding of gender roles and spiritual inclusivity. Together, we peel back the layers of traditional interpretations that have long confined women's roles in the church, urging a return to the equity exemplified by Jesus himself.
Navigating the murky waters of gender inequality in church leadership, this episode casts a revealing light on the plight of women within 'soft complementarian' communities. Liz's experiences expose the gaps between responsibility and authority, and the consequent struggles of women leaders who are often seen but not heard. We question the restrictive readings of Paul's letters and entertain the possibility of a church where women's voices are amplified, and their leadership is both welcomed and respected. It's a moving testament to the pursuit of a faith practice that honors every member's contribution, irrespective of gender.
Finally, we venture into the progressive church landscape, seeking sanctuaries that resonate with our deepest values, especially in the realm of LGBTQ affirmation. Liz underscores the significance of fostering spaces that permit independent belief formation, free from the heavy hand of indoctrination. We touch upon the wisdom gleaned from "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer and contemplate how embracing diverse perspectives and lessons from nature can lead to a more holistic and equitable spiritual journey. It's a call to explore the intersection of faith, nature, and diversity, and to embrace the beauty of a truly inclusive religious experience.
You can find Liz on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lizcoolj and https://www.instagram.com/postevangelicalprayers
You can find more about Liz and her book Nice Churchy Patriarchy at https://www.lizcooledgejenkins.com

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If you would like to be a guest on this podcast or would like to support this work, visit www.leavingthechurchtofindgod.com where you can contact Melissa and or make a donation. Follow along my journey on IG at @authenticallymeli and find more in depth content on YouTube at Diary of an Authentic Life.