We are a welcoming spiritual community that affirms the sacredness of transgender, gender non-conforming, and intersex lives. We exist to foster belonging, celebrate gender diversity, and support every person's journey toward living authentically.
Our Theological Foundation
We hold that gender diversity is not an accident, a disorder, or a deviation — it is a reflection of the divine. Across cultures and throughout history, those who transcend the boundaries of gender have been recognized as sacred: the Two-Spirit people of Indigenous North America, the hijra of South Asia, the Galli priests of ancient Rome, the six genders named in the Talmud. We stand in this ancient tradition, affirming that trans, gender non-conforming, and intersex individuals carry inherent spiritual meaning. For the full scholarly treatment, explore our Sacred History.
Our Teachings
The Sacred Body
Sacredness of Gender Diversity Gender diversity is sacred. Every trans, intersex, and gender non-conforming person is created in the image of the divine.
We recognize and honor the diversity of gender identities and expressions as sacred and valuable. All trans, intersex, and gender non-conforming individuals are created in the image of the divine. Across cultures and throughout history, those who transcend the boundaries of gender have been recognized as carriers of spiritual truth. We stand in that ancient tradition.
Hormone Replacement Therapy HRT is a sacred tool for those who seek it, helping individuals live fully in their true gender.
We affirm the spiritual significance of hormone replacement therapy for those who desire it. HRT can be a vital part of living and presenting in one's congruent gender. We celebrate those who choose this path as part of their journey of self-realization. The church does not prescribe, dispense, or administer medications — we honor the choice and encourage individuals to work with qualified healthcare providers.
Puberty Blockers We support access to puberty blockers for young people experiencing gender dysphoria.
We recognize the value of puberty blockers for young people experiencing gender dysphoria. These medications can help alleviate the distress caused by incongruence between gender identity and the changes of puberty. We support families working with qualified healthcare providers to explore all options for their children's well-being.
Living in Your True Gender Living and presenting in your congruent gender is a sacred act of authenticity.
Living and presenting in one's congruent gender is an important aspect of the gender affirmation journey. We support individuals in their efforts to be seen and known as they truly are, and we strive to create a community that celebrates gender diversity in all its forms.
Holy Practice
Holy Rituals Our rituals honor the journey of gender affirmation as a sacred, communal experience.
We hold holy rituals that honor the journey of gender affirmation, including communal moments where members who take their own prescribed HRT may choose to do so together as an act of celebration and solidarity. These rituals affirm and celebrate the sacredness of trans, gender non-conforming, and intersex lives. Participation is always voluntary.
Informed Consent Bodily autonomy is holy. You have the right to choose what happens to your body.
We believe that for matters of one's body, every person should have the freedom to choose what procedures they undergo. This includes but is not limited to gender-affirming care and reproductive healthcare. Bodily autonomy is a fundamental human right and a sacred principle.
Safety Protecting yourself and your community is a sacred act of self-love.
Because our community has historically been marginalized, taking actions to protect oneself and one's community is a sacred act of self-love. We invest in safety training, de-escalation skills, and mutual protection because we believe every member of our community deserves to feel safe.
Love and Justice
Love is Love We celebrate all consenting adult relationships, regardless of gender.
We recognize and celebrate all consenting adult relationships, regardless of gender. Everyone has the right to love and be loved without discrimination. Any ordained minister of the Blahaj Church may solemnize marriages, commitment ceremonies, and weddings for all who wish to publicly declare their love and commitment to each other.
Welcoming All Everyone who affirms the sacredness of gender diversity has a place here.
We welcome all who venerate and accept the sacredness of trans, gender non-conforming, and intersex people. Regardless of your own gender identity or expression, you have a place in our community if you share our values of love, acceptance, and support.
Right of Self-Determination Every person has the right to define and express their own gender identity.
We believe in the fundamental human right of self-determination, especially regarding gender identity, expression, and bodily autonomy. Gender is complex and multifaceted, and every individual has the right to express their gender in a way that is true to themselves, regardless of societal norms and expectations.
Facility Access Everyone deserves to access facilities that match their gender identity, without fear.
Every individual has the right to access gender-segregated facilities and services that correspond to their gender identity. Trans, gender non-conforming, and intersex individuals should be able to use bathrooms, locker rooms, and other facilities that align with their gender identity without fear of discrimination or harassment.
Participation in Sport Trans and gender non-conforming people belong in sports.
Individuals should have the right to participate in sports that align with their gender identity. Trans and gender non-conforming individuals should not be excluded from sports based solely on their gender identity. Any restrictions should be based on relevant factors such as skill level or age, not gender identity.
Health and Wholeness
Sexual Health Everyone deserves safe, shame-free access to sexual healthcare.
Everyone has the right to enjoy their sexuality safely and responsibly. We support safer sex practices, including condoms, PrEP, and other prevention methods. Everyone should have access to quality healthcare, including sexual health care, free from shame or stigma.
Right to Abortion The decision to bring life into the world is sacred and belongs to the pregnant person alone.
The decision to bring life into the world is a sacred one and should be made with careful consideration. If a pregnant person chooses to have an abortion, they should be able to do so safely and without shame or stigma. We support access to all reproductive healthcare, including medication abortion, in a supportive environment free from judgment.
Our faith stands in the oldest spiritual traditions on earth.
Explore the Sacred History of Gender Diversity