How to Work Through Christian Religious Barriers to Being Affirming and Celebratory of Transgender and Nonbinary People: Insights From Mainline Protestant Christian Religious Leaders

Given the centrality of religious beliefs in shaping nonaffirming perceptions of marginalized gender identities, this exploratory qualitative study sought to interview Christian religious leaders with the hope of better supporting family therapists and families in developing affirming and celebratory views of transgender and nonbinary identities. Nineteen religious leaders from mainly diverse Mainline Christian Protestant traditions were interviewed. Queer theory-informed thematic analysis revealed four themes that reflect insights in fostering more affirming and inclusive beliefs about transgender and nonbinary people: (1) discuss the misuse and appropriate use of religious theology, (2) be present with people, (3) educate through resources and the humanization of transgender and nonbinary people, and (4) be a living example of affirmation. Implications for family therapists are discussed.