Father Ethan Jewett is Standing on my Soapbox to Talk Religion and Being LGBTQ

Left of Str8 Podcasts

Summary

Father Ethan Jewett shares his journey of being an out gay man in religious leadership and his advocacy for acceptance and understanding within the LGBTQ+ community. He grew up in Tampa, Florida, in a Jewish household and experienced a crisis of faith after witnessing the exclusion of elderly congregants from worship due to financial reasons. In his early thirties, he rediscovered religion and found a welcoming community in the Episcopal Church. Father Ethan discusses the challenges he faced in the ordination process and the tension between LGBTQ+ identity and the expectations of the church. He emphasizes the need for the church to be more inclusive and accepting of queer individuals. Additionally, Father Ethan shares his passion for fitness and the importance of embracing and celebrating the human body. Father Ethan Jewett discusses the difference between sinful pride and pride in oneself, the importance of body positivity, and the need for change in the church. He also talks about the role of religion and spirituality in finding centering and purpose, the significance of being oneself and living authentically, and the challenges of navigating LGBTQ relationships within the church.

Takeaways

Father Ethan Jewett's journey as an out gay man in religious leadership highlights the need for acceptance and understanding within the LGBTQ+ community.

The Episcopal Church and other progressive denominations have made strides in accepting queer individuals, but there is still work to be done to challenge heteronormative norms and expectations.

Father Ethan emphasizes the importance of embracing and celebrating the human body, countering the stigmatization of the body within religious contexts.

His personal journey of blending fitness and spirituality showcases the power of physical wellness in building confidence and self-esteem. Religion and spirituality can provide a moral framework for understanding the world and living with integrity.

Being oneself and living authentically is essential for personal fulfillment and maintaining integrity.

Therapy and being part of a community can provide guidance and support during a crisis of faith.

Body shaming is harmful and comparing oneself to others on social media can be destructive. Acceptance and self-compassion are key.

The church needs to change and be more inclusive and accepting of LGBTQ relationships.Standing on My Soapbox is a podcast that tackles serious issues such as politics, religion, and minority rights.

The current political climate poses threats to democracy and LGBTQ rights, making it important to have a platform for in-depth discussions.

Immigration is a hot topic in the United States, with challenges in managing the influx of people and the need for a comprehensive solution.

The documentary Migrant Sea sheds light on the migrant situation from Africa to Italy, giving voice to the stories and experiences of African migrants.

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