Interview with Jess Cook: The Intersection of Sexuality, Christianity, and Mental HealthInterview with Jess Cook: The Intersection of Sexuality, Christianity, and Mental Health
A Little Help For Our Friends
Jess Cook discusses faith, gender identity, and mental health, sharing their journey as the first openly trans and nonbinary Presbyterian pastor.
1:14:44•1 Mar 2023
Jess Cook on Faith, Identity, and Mental Health: A Journey of Inclusion
“I think liberation works when it's theologically grounded... everywhere, the people who understand the message of the spirit are the people who the institution has said: don't belong. And so that, I think, is really affirming.”
How do faith, gender identity, and mental health come together in one powerful narrative? In this episode of 'A Little Help For Our Friends', hosts Jacqueline Trumbull and Dr. Kibby McMahon sit down with Jess Cook, the first openly trans and nonbinary pastor in the Presbyterian Church. Jess shares their deeply personal journey of self-discovery, detailing how they came to identify as nonbinary and the early signs that hinted at their genderqueer identity.
This conversation isn’t just about personal experiences; it also dives into broader issues like the exclusion of queer people from Christian communities and why this goes against the very principles of Christianity. Jess talks about their work in creating inclusive spaces within the church, particularly for queer youth, making them feel welcome and safe. The episode touches on themes like gender dysphoria, spiritual healing, and queer theology, offering a fresh perspective on how faith and identity can coexist harmoniously.
Whether you’re interested in mental health, social justice, or simply want to hear an inspiring story of inclusion and liberation, this episode is a must-listen.
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