Category: Contextual Bible Studies
Subcategory: Blogs
Abstract
This blog post, “Ujamaa and IAM pilot a contextual Bible study for trans-diverse inclusion”, documents a collaboration between the Ujamaa Centre and Inclusive & Affirming Ministries (IAM).
On 17 November 2021, these partners led an online Contextual Bible Study (CBS) with postgraduate students at UKZN’s Gender & Religion programme, centering their exploration on the story of the Ethiopian Eunuch in Acts 8:26–40, a biblical figure who is often seen as “othered” and excluded within faith traditions.
In this study, participants were invited to reflect on questions such as: “Who are the eunuchs in our contemporary church and society?”, drawing connections between biblical marginalisation and the lived experiences of various excluded groups—including trans, intersex, and gender-diverse people. Through intersectional reflection on disability, reproductive expectations, xenophobia, and more, the study challenged participants to consider how faith communities might respond with inclusion, respect, and accountability.