Queer Theology

Five Day Intensive
(27-28 June and 1-3 July)

Rev Penny Jones & Rev Dr Josephine Inkpin

This unit will explore queer theology as it has emerged from queer theory, LGBTIQA justice struggles, and faith development and practice. It will acquaint students with the history and challenges of the term ‘queer’, and introduce the multiplicity of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer Christian theologies that have emerged in recent decades. It will seek to analyse and critique theological loci and motifs of Christian theology, including the queering of scripture and hermeneutics and key theological doctrines. Exploring intersectional approaches, including postcolonial perspectives, queer art, action and contemporary reflection, participants will be enabled to assess critically the value and possibilities of queer theology for faith and society today.

Queer Theology Title Slide

For other intensives running at Pilgrim in 2024 click here.

Delivery Notes

This course is delivered as a face to face and online synchronous Intensive over five weekdays, (Thursday Friday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday). The class will meet from 9 am to 5 pm (including scheduled breaks) on 27 – 28 June and 1 – 3 July. In addition to the intensive classes, there are three scheduled online Zoom seminars for two hours on Tuesday evenings, 13, 20 and 27 August. The seminars provide opportunities to present and workshop for Assignments 2 and 3 ahead of submission.

Prerequisites

Students taking this unit for credit are required to have completed:

  • One unit of Christian Thought
  • One unit of Biblical Studies

Learning Outcomes and Assessment Details

Learning Outcomes

  1. describe ‘queer theory’ as it relates to religious, especially Christian studies
  2. describe the history of queer identities and formulations within religious studies
  3. engage in theological discussion, both oral and written, about queer theological texts
  4. critically analyse contemporary issues surrounding queer identities and religion in an informed manner
  5. express the value and possibilities of queer theology to others

Assessment

Task 1 - Essay

Essay critically analysing the nature of queer theology (1000 words)

Task 2 - Analysis of a Queer Text/Artwork/Event

Presentation analysing theologically a queer text, artwork or event (1000 words or equivalent time in explanation)

Task 3 - Essay

Essay critically exploring a significant feature of queer theology (3000 words)

Learning Outcomes

  1. critically evaluate queer theory as it relates to religious, especially Christian studies
  2. assess critically the history of queer identities and formulations within religious studies
  3. apply reflective understanding to theological discussion, both oral and written, about queer theological texts
  4. develop a critical analysis of contemporary issues surrounding queer identities and religion
  5. articulate a developed expression of the value and possibilities of queer theology to others

Assessment

Task 1 - Essay

Essay critically analysing the nature of queer theology (1000 words)

Task 2 - Analysis of a Queer Text/Artwork/Event

Presentation analysing theologically a queer text, artwork or event which is also submitted in writing (2000 words)

Task 3 - Essay

Essay critically exploring a significant feature of queer theology (4000 words)