“Queering the Church: The Theological and Ecclesial Potential of Failure“
by Penelope Cowell Doe
SCM Press, 2024, 208 pages

At A Glance: “Queering the Church” explores how abandoning traditional church reports and debates on sexuality can lead to dismantling hierarchical authority and fostering inclusivity within ecclesial practices.

Overview: “Queering the Church: The Theological and Ecclesial Potential of Failure” by Penelope Cowell Doe critically examines the methodologies of church reports on sexuality, such as the Pilling Report, and the subsequent liturgical developments from Living in Love and Faith.

The book employs Halberstam’s concept of the “queer art of failure” to argue for moving away from institutionally sanctioned debates and reports. Instead, Doe suggests dismantling theological privilege and hierarchical authority within the church to create more inclusive and equitable ecclesial and liturgical practices.

Thoughts from Readers: