SPECIAL ILLUMINATION
Book Description
In the decades following Gay Liberation, a profound spiritual awakening has emerged within LGBTQ+ communities, yet this transformative movement remains largely unexamined by scholars and spiritual seekers alike. Rollan McCleary's "Special Illumination" addresses this critical gap by offering the first comprehensive exploration of gay spirituality as a legitimate and vital force in contemporary religious thought.
This groundbreaking work traces how gay spiritual expression has evolved from its initial emergence in Christian theology during the 1970s to its current manifestations across diverse traditions, from Buddhism to neo-paganism. McCleary argues that what began as a quest for acceptance within established religious circles has developed into something far more significant: a genuine spiritual movement that challenges conventional understanding of self, vision, and ethical living.
Rather than simply documenting claims for religious rights and inclusion, McCleary delves deeper into the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of this phenomenon. He examines how gay spirituality represents not just adaptation to existing religious frameworks, but a unique stream of Western thought that offers fresh perspectives on fundamental questions of identity, meaning, and transcendence.
Through careful analysis spanning 370 pages, this collection of essays provides essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of sexuality and spirituality in modern religious life. McCleary's work fills a crucial void in religious studies while offering valuable insights for spiritual seekers exploring authentic paths of self-discovery.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~10 hours)
📄 Length: 370 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Religion
- ✓ Explore Gays
- ✓ Explore Essays
- ✓ Explore Homosexuality
- ✓ Explore Godsdienstigheid
- ✓ Explore Homosexualité
- ✓ Explore Homosexuel
- ✓ Explore Godsdienstige bewegingen