What does hope look like today? How do we find light in dark and difficult times, including adverse political times and times of transition? One possible answer is to reclaim our traditions! This presentation will explore how we can find refuge in our queer and Latinx Christian traditions to craft a message of hope. The facilitator will interweave personal narrative, theological insight, and practical advice for how people and communities can navigate difficulty and grow together in communion with God. This journey often involves introspection, discernment, and external public activism.
Dr. Ish Ruiz teaches Latinx and Queer Decolonial Theology at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, CA, and holds a PhD in Theology and Ethics from the Graduate Theological Union. A native from Puerto Rico and a queer Catholic theologian, his research interests explore the intersection between queer theology, Latinx theology, ecclesiology, sexual ethics, liberation, human rights, and Catholic education. Through his teaching, research, and service, Dr. Ruiz hopes to see a world where Catholicism (and Christianity, more broadly) embrace the diversity of gifts people of all racial backgrounds and sexual identities bring to society and the Church.