Reverend Zach joins TJ and David to share his unexpected journey from being in a same-sex marriage (Side A) to embracing a historic Christian sexual ethic (Side B). Raised Roman Catholic and shaped by a call to ministry, Zachary opens up about the questions that surfaced during his seminary studies, the marriage he entered before fully understanding what kind of connection he truly longed for, and how his view of friendship, marriage, and vocation has changed over time.

He reflects on the questions that surfaced during seminary, how getting married changed his understanding of marriage, his longing for friendship, and the theologians and writers who shaped his thinking.

We appreciate Rev. Zach’s honesty, insight, and experience with navigating life and ministry as a Side B priest in a largely Side A denomination.

—What’s happened since? Come back on 12/11 for a bonus follow-up episode from Zach since this episode: https://open.substack.com/pub/newkinship/p/bonus-catching-up-with-zach-6-months

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Note: This episode uses the terms “Side A” and “Side B” (and X, Y) as shorthand quite a bit. If you’re new to the conversation, you might find it helpful to check out episode #3, where we talk through the four “sides”: ⁠#3 - A-B-Y-X | 4 Sides on SSA/Gay Sexuality⁠

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★ About Our Guest

Rev. Zach ministers to the people of Long Island, NY and recently wrapped up his chaplaincy residency at Stony Brook University Hospital. You’ll most likely find him deep in a Jacques Ellul book or rooting for his favorite team, the Detroit Tigers. You can contact him on Instagram: @zach_enthusiastic

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★ Timestamps

(00:00) #73 - Theologies of Marriage and Friendship: Rev. Zach’s Story from Side A to Side B

(02:10) How old are you? And other awkward life questions

(17:53) A call to the priesthood

(27:13) “Have you heard of Wesley Hill?” (and many others)

(35:12) William Stringfellow had a big impact

(41:44) Becoming Side B, engaging Side A

(48:47) Was the breakup more relational or theological?

(55:27) It’s about the covenantal nature of God

(59:58) Does your Episcopalian church know you’re side B?

(01:05:01) Why stay in a “big tent” church?

(01:08:03) Beyond Side A: What does a marriage covenant mean?

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★ Send us feedback, questions, comments, and support!

Email: communionandshalom@gmail.com | Instagram: @newkinship | Substack: @newkinship | Patreon: @newkinship

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★ Credits

Creators and Hosts: David Frank, TJ Espinoza | Audio Engineer: Carl Swenson, carlswensonmusic.com | Podcast Manager: Elena F. | Graphic Designer: Gavin Popken, gavinpopkenart.com ★