When Liz Cooledge Jenkins began to unravel the tightly wound threads of her conservative evangelical upbringing, she embarked on a spiritual odyssey that would eventually see her championing LGBTQ affirming theology and advocating for women’s roles in church leadership. In the latest podcast episode, Liz shares the significant moments that propelled her evolution and her unwavering pursuit of a faith practice that embodies the inclusivity Jesus exemplified.
Liz’s book, “Nice Churchy Patriarchy: Reclaiming Women’s Humanity from Evangelicalism,” forms the backdrop for an in-depth conversation that peels back the layers of restrictive gender roles in the church. The episode casts a stark light on the plight of women in ‘soft complementarian’ communities, who are often tasked with responsibility but denied authority. It challenges traditional interpretations of the Bible, particularly Paul’s letters, suggesting a church where women’s voices are not just heard but amplified.
Navigating the journey from conservative to progressive Christian communities, Liz highlights the importance of finding sanctuaries that align with one’s deepest values. She underlines the necessity of spaces that encourage independent belief formation, free from indoctrination’s heavy hand. The episode also explores the concept of productivity within the context of white supremacy and how scripture often gets misconstrued to support a productivity-focused ethos.
Reflecting on Robin Wall Kimmerer’s “Braiding Sweetgrass,” Liz draws parallels between the sustainable interactions of plants within an ecosystem and the potential for a holistic spiritual journey that honors diversity. She argues for a spiritual connection with nature and the value of learning from different cultures and people. This extends to the wisdom of transgender individuals and those who embody both masculine and feminine energies, urging listeners to embrace the intersection of faith, nature, and diversity.
As Liz discusses her experiences and insights, she paints a picture of a faith community where every member, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, is valued. She shares stories of personal growth and transformation, encouraging others to seek a more equitable and loving spiritual path.
The episode concludes with a call to action for churches to dismantle the barriers that have historically marginalized women and the LGBTQ community. Liz’s message is clear: it’s time for faith communities to move beyond lip service to true inclusivity and to celebrate the rich tapestry of human experience in all its forms. This is a call to explore and embrace the beauty of a truly inclusive religious experience, one that resonates with the core teachings of love, acceptance, and equality that Jesus himself lived by.
Find more about Liz and her work on Instagram @postevangelicalprayers and @lizcoolj and on her website here.
Listen to this full episode as well as others of the Leaving the Church to Find God Podcast here or wherever you listen to podcasts.
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