In this episode, we reflect upon what’s happened in the faith/religion/spirituality and deconstruction world in 2023 with our dear friends Briana and Artie (who, along with us, make up the QCF Squad group chat). We talk about the Asbury Revival, the Pope’s recent “LGBTQ Blessing” statement, the Ruby Franke case, and the queer Christian music wins (Semler and Flamy Grant making history, hell yeah!). We also discuss the Shiny Happy People Documentary (as well as the two books by Duggar daughters released this year) and the increasing awareness about religious trauma in our culture (more therapists specializing in this is a good thing!). April gives her annual UMC update– lots more congregations are leaving the denomination, but hopefully in 2024 full LGBTQ+ inclusion may be possible. We also discuss the conflict in Israel-Palestine and the way social media has played a role in spreading awareness.  We have merch! Get your Bible Dyke Energy Tee and more here: https://www.redbubble.com/people/rtgardenpodcast/shop  Our social media: @reclaimingthegarden on Insta, @RtGardenPodcast on Twitter, and Reclaiming the Garden on Facebook. Our personal accounts: @thatpunchabletheaternerd, @April_TheWriter (April is on Twitter and Insta). Also, our podcast account follows a bunch of awesome folks + podcasts in the exvangelical/deconstruction world and progressive Christian world, so if you’re looking for more resources, that’s a great place to start!