Do you ever feel like you're living a lie, suppressing your true identity to fit into a religious framework that perpetuates homophobia, white supremacy, and empire? If so, you're not alone - our guest, Elexio Baillou, walked the same path and emerged triumphant, leaving behind toxic Christianity to embrace an authentic life of faith. This episode is a candid conversation about the journey of liberation, the struggles faced while deconstructing faith, and the toll it takes on one's sense of self and identity.
Elexio’s faith journey, which he refers to as "leaving Babylon", paints a vivid picture of the struggle to reconcile who we're taught to be with our true identities in Christ. The conversation moves into the realm of spiritual trauma - the damage inflicted by suppressing our identities and the healing process post-trauma. Drawing on Elexio's experiences, we discuss the civil rights movement's parallels, exploring how we can use our pain to help the next generation.
As the conversation deepens, we dive into the healing power of reclaiming our rights to be in God's presence. The idea of existing authentically, even in the face of prejudice and judgment, comes into focus, and we discuss the importance of recognizing our right to be where we are without apology. Alexio shares his personal experience - the peace he found by existing authentically, the role of family in understanding his own fertility, and the courage it took to uncompromisingly exist. You will be drawn to the wisdom he imparts, the importance of a compass guided by the Holy Spirit, and the encouragement to never compromise your right to exist. Tune in and be inspired by Alexio's journey of faith and identity.
Life After Leaven is sponsored by Sub:Culture Incorporated, a 501c3 committed to eradicating cultural, social, spiritual, financial, and academic barriers for Black College Students. If you are interested in giving a tax deductible donation toward our work with black college students, you can do that here. Thank you for helping us ensure temporary roadblocks don't become permanent dead ends for students with marginalized identities. You can follow us on Instagram: @subc_incorporated, Facebook: facebook.com/subcultureinco, and Twitter: @subcultureinco1.
Our episodes are written and produced by Tamice Namae Speaks LLC.
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