Episode 4 | The Robert Shore Goss Story

In this episode of Queer & Christian, Brandan Robertson sits down with Rev. Dr. Robert E. Shore-Goss, a Catholic Jesuit priest turned pastor, theologian, and environmental activist, whose remarkable journey spans decades of dedicated service, resilience, and love. Known for his pioneering work in eco-spirituality and queer theology, Robert brings a unique perspective on what it means to create inclusive, justice-oriented faith communities.

Robert shares his journey from being a Jesuit priest, navigating his love for another Jesuit, Frank Ring, to eventually serving as Senior Pastor/Theologian at MCC United Church of Christ in the Valley—an environmentally friendly, dual-affiliated church with both MCC and the United Church of Christ. Now retired and residing in New Hampshire with his husband, Rev. Dr. Joseph Shore-Goss, Robert continues to advocate for eco-justice as a member of the UCC Environmental Justice Council.

Throughout their conversation, Robert offers insights from his extensive work, including his book The Insurgency of the Spirit: Jesus’s Liberation Animist Spirituality, Empire, and Creating Christian Protectors, and his co-edited volume Unlocking Orthodoxy for an Inclusive Theology: Queer Orthodoxies. He also discusses his upcoming work on The Queer Bible Commentary, which he is co-editing with Mona West.

Join us for a fascinating discussion that delves into:

• The journey of moving from traditional Catholicism to leading a fully inclusive, queer-affirming, and environmentally conscious church
• The transformative potential of eco-spirituality and animist practices in addressing climate catastrophe
• The Rights of Nature Resolution, which Robert helped pass within the UCC, and the ongoing work to implement it
• How queer theology challenges traditional interpretations and reclaims biblical narratives for LGBTQ+ individuals
• The unique journey of love, faith, and mutual support he shares with his husband, Joe

With warmth and wisdom, Robert invites us to reimagine a faith that embraces both the earth and all its inhabitants. This episode is a profound exploration of resilience, love, and the expansive possibilities of a justice-centered spiritual life.

Learn more about Dr. Shore-Goss at mischievousspiritandtheology.com

Learn more about Queer & Christian at queerchristian.org