As I’ve observed Christian nationalism and studied purity culture in the last few years, a common theme repeatedly shows up: the pursuit of “biblical” family values. Images, metaphors, and myths of the ideal family have shaped much of how many people, namely conservative Christians, have understood their role as God’s chosen people, both as American…
If the “exvangelical” and #ChurchToo movements tell us anything, sexual assault and other forms of religious abuse or trauma are more prevalent in our (faith) communities than we may like to admit. This month marks the 20th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and it serves as a reminder there is much work left to…
I’m grateful to be able to introduce Dr. Camden Morgante to you here! In last few months Camden and I connected on social media via our shared interest in purity culture and Christian feminism. This is a growing field of interest for many and I believe the research she presents on shame is vital to…
In this series we’ve covered many topics within purity culture, but you may be left wondering what your role is in preventing sexual violence. This post contains several resources to empower you and your community to make informed advocacy decisions. Survivor Advocacy & Community Prevention The Importance of Pastoral Advocacy in Preventing Sexual Violence Members…
(This post uses #ChurchToo to compare responses from evangelical leaders, both pastoral and political, in the U.S. towards sexual violence. Additionally, the term “evangelical” has become political in recent years. Evangelical Christianity is a broad category with many different perspectives and is not monolithic. Simply because someone self-identifies as an evangelical does not mean they…
(This post is not explicit but does discuss elements of abuse and the normalization of sexual violence in the church through liturgy. It may make some uncomfortable, especially those with histories of trauma. If you feel this applies to you, there’s no pressure to read it.) Not all churches or religious spaces are liturgical like…