In the Margins: A Transgender Man’s Journey with Scripture

Kearns, well-known in theological circles for co-founding QueerTheology.com, provides an intimate memoir combined with a theological analysis of some of the most famous stories of the Christian Bible, which he says helped him make sense of his identity. Designated female at birth, Kearns describes how uncomfortable he was with that body, and he links his experiences with gender dysphoria, and eventually transition, to a revealing analysis of the role of eunuchs in the New Testament. From there, Kearns takes various stories from the Bible to make sense of his life’s transitions and to offer lessons to readers. For example, the author showcases a message about body image that he drew from the tale about Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones; and the story of Rahab teaches about being what Kearns calls a “sexual outsider.” Through storytelling, deconstruction, and reconstruction, Kearns demonstrates how it is possible to be a faithful Christian pilgrim who’s also true to his identity.