Queering Faith 4.0: Mythology and Futurism as Tools for Queer Theology
Join us for a conversation with Taj M Smith and Gabrielle Bychowski moderated by Chris Davies and brought to you by the UCC Campus Ministry at the University of Illinois.
While this event is free for any student, we recommend $5 donation from non-students to help offset event costs: https://bit.ly/QF4-Donate
Taj M. Smith (He/Him) is a Black, transgender, Christian whose theology is heavily influenced by liberation theology, queer theology, and science fiction. He fell in love with Christianity despite its deep roots in colonialism and oppression because of those who create change with a message of love and community. He received his MDiv from Harvard Divinity School in 2016. His work has appeared in Believe Outloud, Huffington Post, and QChristian Fellowship. He is an avid sci-fi lover, a long-time musician, and an appreciator of fine hats.
Dr. Gabrielle M.W. Bychowski (She/Her) is a trans woman author, academic researcher, and educator. While marrying into the UCC as a pastor’s wife, Gabby hails from the Roman Catholic Church with a background in liberation theology and female mysticism. She comes to our symposium with great enthusiasm for engaging with young trans and queer people, especially about topics of faith, mythology, and speculative literature. She is full-time faculty in the Case Western Reserve University English department and holds the position of Anisfield-Wolf SAGES Fellow.
Rev. Dr. Chris Davies (She/Her) attended Smith College for her undergrad work and Andover Newton for both a Masters of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry, focusing on queering proclamation. Chris is a queer femme, an urban farmer and beekeeper, and a creative networker of communities. She is passionate about justice and Jesus, and is the founder and curator of the Queer Clergy Trading Cards and she serves on the National Staff of the United Church of Christ.