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In a move that intertwines faith and performance art, several pastors from the United Church of Christ (UCC) are incorporating drag into their ministries to emphasize themes of love and inclusion. Rev. Ricardo Tavárez, author of the upcoming book "Drag Queen Preacher," discusses his journey with drag through his persona Luz De La Rica. Reflecting on his experiences after being excluded from various churches for coming out as gay, Tavárez states, “I’m begging anyone and everyone to understand that drag is my protest against the erasure of my struggle.”
The book, set to be published by Pilgrim Press, combines memoir with reflections on culture, queerness, resistance, and faith. Tavárez describes how drag has become integral to his ministry at En Vivo Church, where he uses artistic expression to challenge traditional boundaries between self-expression and pastoral duties.
Rev. Brooke Dooley shares a similar narrative. Known in drag as Brock Bottom, she explains how her performances have been therapeutic in reconciling her past traumas with her understanding of gender and sexuality. “What would it mean to preach as Brock... Why wouldn’t Brock also join me in the journey of being liberated in my understanding of who God is?” she reflects.
Rev. James Admans adds another dimension by hosting "drag church" services that celebrate diversity within God's creation. Through their persona Rev. Marge, Admans engages congregants in vibrant worship while challenging conventional church norms.
Admans notes that such initiatives help bring people closer to what they believe Jesus envisioned—a movement rather than mere attendance in pews. They emphasize that drag preachers are offering unique spiritual gifts not just for queer individuals but for everyone affected by exclusionary practices within religious institutions.
Tavárez’s forthcoming book and these ministers' efforts underscore a growing movement within UCC towards inclusivity and broader acceptance within church communities.
