Continuing to live into Epiphany Moments
Elijah Burton reflects on his identity as a transman and thanks all for supporting AllianceQ’s 12 Days of Christmas
I especially identify with the season of Epiphany. My discovery of identity was a journey that culminated in my self-acceptance as a transman. I spent time reflecting and learning before realizing my “ah-ha” moment.
Many queer Christians can identify with Epiphany. Some of us had a sudden revelation or a season of insights when it came to living as our whole and holy selves. As we continue to live into the grace and love that God gives us, we find more reasons to celebrate the beauty and diversity of God’s people and tell others our stories and God’s love story. We continue to experience epiphanies as we look at the Bible and church history from an LGBTQ lens.
Some see themselves in the story of Joseph and his beautiful rainbow coat, while others find themselves in the story of the Eunuch. These stories, and many more in the bible, reflect the lived realities of LGBTQ people; we can hold these as proof of God’s love and grace for ALL.
In the Christian tradition, Epiphany is celebrated on January 6, as a day to remember when the message of Christ was brought to the Gentiles by way of the magi. “Epiphany” has a few definitions, many relating to this time in the church and the coming of Christ. However, its base definition is best summarized as “a sudden revelation.”
Beginning December 25, we shared 12 concepts or ideals that drive our organization to do the work that creates space for Queer people everywhere to thrive and live into their epiphany moments. Thank you for engaging with us and supporting AllianceQ’s 12 Days of Christmas “Queering Epiphany” Fundraiser. The fundraiser is open through January 28, 2024, the Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany. Donate here.
Please continue to share your stories and gifts that will help AllianceQ spread love and the message of the Magi: Jesus is for ALL people. Together we will show up for and manifest justice + liberation, belonging + affirmation, connectedness + relationship, love + grace, accountability + transparency, leadership, and healing.
On January 5, Charles Stanley (he/him) shared in response to the gift of healing and wrote, “Every day, my breath is an act of healing. Every day I choose to live and function is an act of resistance to the darkness that can so easily consume me. Every day, I strive to continue dreaming for my life.”
Scan more of our community’s stories in the Facebook comments on our page.
Contributed by Elijah Burton, Council Treasurer