In a groundbreaking interview with the Liverpool Echo, Bingo Allison, the Church of England’s first non-binary priest, delved into their transformative journey of acceptance and spiritual growth within the LGBTQ+ community.
Embracing Identity and Spirituality
Allison, originally from West Yorkshire, revealed how discovering their gender identity had brought them closer to their faith and fostered a deep reflection on their stance towards LGBTQ+ issues. Raised in a devoutly religious household where homosexuality and queerness were considered sinful, they acknowledged their former traditional and conservative views, admitting that they were marked by ignorance and othering. Allison’s awakening began when someone challenged their characterization of gay marriage as an “issue,” prompting them to reevaluate their perspective and ultimately embrace a more inclusive viewpoint.
The Revelation of “Genderqueer”
The turning point in Allison’s journey came with the encounter of the term “genderqueer.” This revelation proved to be a challenging moment, particularly as they were midway through a seven-year vicar training program. Initially torn about whether to remain in the closet, the truth of their identity ultimately demanded recognition. Allison confessed that the lack of a vocabulary to describe their experiences had hindered their self-discovery. However, the Bible itself became a source of solace and guidance. While writing an essay on God’s creation of the Earth, they stumbled upon Genesis 1:27, which speaks of “maleness to femaleness” instead of rigid gender binaries. This revelation deepened their spiritual connection, and they felt that God was guiding them towards embracing their authentic self.
A Blessing to the Church
Today, Allison views LGBTQ+ individuals as a “blessing to the church,” a perspective that puts them at odds with many within the Church of England. The Church faced controversy in January during discussions on expanding the definition of holy matrimony beyond heterosexual couples. Anglican bishops ultimately rejected these recommendations at the national assembly, offering blessings for same-sex couples but stopping short of ordaining marriage ceremonies.
In their journey of self-discovery, Bingo Allison’s story serves as a testament to the profound connection between identity, faith, and the LGBTQ+ community, challenging traditional views within the Church of England.
