Episode Summary
James’s story is a profound exploration of faith, identity, and resilience. Raised in a conservative church, James faced rejection during their ordination process. A painful experience that led them to give themselves permission to explore drag during the COVID lockdowns. We delve into what inspired James to study theology and divination. How growing up in a heteronormative environment shaped their journey of exploring gender and sexuality, ultimately leading to liberation.
James shares the transformative power of drag and the valuable insights gained from seminary, including their personal relationship with God and the struggle with biblical texts. The discussion speaks on the isolation of Queer individuals, the clobber passages, and the emotional fallout. In the initial weeks, James grappled with trauma and uncertainty about a future in ministry.
A year later, they began exploring drag, developing the persona of ‘Marge,’ which they view as a spiritual calling. Marge challenges church norms and roles, prompting reflection and change. James now finds a renewed sense of faith and spirituality through unique practices and shares insights for those deep in their deconstruction journey.
My Thoughts
I cannot explain the impact it could have had on me, had a Drag Queen walked into my church. I love James and the work they are doing in Drag Church.
It also breaks my heart every time I hear another story of Queer people being hurt and traumatised by the church. There is and always will be space for Queer people of faith and I love that Minister Marge is doing that in all her fabulous glory!
More About James
James Admans (they/them) is a minister, entrepreneur, and drag queen (Marge Erin Johnson, she/her).
They graduated from Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York (unceded homelands of the Lenape Nation) with a Master of Divinity degree in interdisciplinary Biblical studies, social ethics, and queer theology. During their last year in seminary, they were honoured to receive the prestigious Malcolm Boyd Veritas Award for advocacy and social justice work on behalf of the queer and trans community.
They are also the editor of the recently published Beyond Worship: Meditations on Queer Worship, Liturgy, & Theology, a queer worship anthology featuring thirty-three contributions by LGBTQIA2S+ theologians. The book was awarded a 2023 Independent Publishers Bronze Medal in the category of religion.
Their drag alter-ego, Marge Erin Johnson, leads a vibrant drag ministry, preaching, and leading worship.
Connect With Us
- You can find more about James on their website – https://www.theologyqueen.com/
- You can also connect on social media over on Instagram or YouTube
- To connect with Sam on Instagram – @anchoredcounsellingservices
- Want to contact with Sam about the podcast or therapy? Use this contact form.