#34 - Interview with a Longstanding Side B Ally, Misty Irons

Misty Irons has been part of the faith and sexuality conversation for over 20 years. We were honored to talk to her about her journey with Side B, being an ally to queer people, and what an “accommodationist” view of Side A could look like. We’re grateful for her perspective and her intense care and thoughtfulness on topics of faith and sexuality.

About Our Guest:

Misty Irons is a friend of LGBTQ Christians and has served this community as a conference speaker, seminar leader, and podcast guest, representing a straight-ally perspective. For 16 years she maintained a blog on faith and sexuality. She is a graduate of Westminster Seminary California (M.A., Biblical Studies) and a member of the Presbyterian Church in America. She currently resides in Los Angeles, California.

—

Note: This episode uses the terms “Side A” and “Side B” (and X, Y) as shorthand quite a bit. If you’re new to the conversation, you might find it helpful to check out Communion & Shalom episode #3, where we talk through the four “sides”: #3 - A-B-Y-X | 4 Sides on SSA/Gay Sexuality

__________

Timestamps

(00:57) Introducing Misty Irons

(04:17) Entering the conversation on faith and sexuality

(14:06) Getting involved in QCF

(27:28) Inside experience vs. outside "promises” of ex-gay ministries (”Side X”)

(35:55) Sexuality theology in Presbyterian and Reformed circles: sin, misery, and ____?

(45:10) What has it meant to be an ally to queer people?

(54:40) Comparing terms: "Gentile Christian" and "queer Christian”

__________

Links and References

Misty’s blog with links to recent talks: moremusingson.blogspot.com

__________

If you like this podcast, please consider…

→ Sharing feedback or questions! www.podpage.com/communion-shalom/contact

→ Supporting us on Patreon! patreon.com/communionandshalom

→ Following us on Instagram! @communionandshalom

—

Credits

Creators and Hosts: David Frank, TJ Espinoza

Audio Engineer: Carl Swenson (www.carlswensonmusic.com)

Podcast Manager: Elena