Being Queer Is the Holiest Thing I’ve Ever Done

A reflection on honesty, vulnerability, and divine becoming by Tamice Spencer-Helms

Public Theology is based on the work of Zach W. Lambert, Pastor of Restore, an inclusive church in Austin, Texas. He and his wife, Amy Lambert, contribute to and moderate this account. All of the content available at Public Theology is for those who identify as Christian, as well as those who might be interested in learning about a more inclusive, kind, thoughtful Christianity.

Zach’s first book, Better Ways to Read the Bible, will release on August 12, 2025 and is available to preorder today.

Better Ways to Read the Bible is currently on sale through Baker, or you can receive a signed copy when ordering through Book People. (For signed copies: include the name of the person to whom you would like the book signed in the comments field during checkout at bookpeople.com; not yet available to those in the EU, so sorry!).

Every preorder qualifies for an instant download art print as well as a free copy of the audiobook upon release. Please complete this form to receive your preorder bonuses!

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We’re glad you’re here.

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During Pride Month, we are highlighting some of our favorite LGBTQ+ Public Theologians here on Substack.

I am so excited to introduce y’all to my dear friend

Tamice Spencer-Helms

! We’ve been friends online for a few years, but we met and spent time together at the Post Evangelical Collective gathering in Nashville back in April. This is Tamice praying over me with their hand on my heart. It happened after I teared up when they asked how I was doing with my dad’s cancer diagnosis. I gave them the update (it’s incurable) and Tamice responded by closing their eyes, receiving my pain, and praying for me.

It’s hard to describe just how impactful this moment was, especially because Tamice cried, too. There is a story in Scripture where Jesus matches Mary’s tears after her brother, Lazarus, passes away. The depth of empathy and compassion he demonstrated in that story are exactly what I got from Tamice—a truly Christlike moment.

This is just who Tamice is: someone looking for ways to bring the love of Jesus to everyone they encounter. In addition to subscribing to Tamice’s Substack, you should also check out their amazing book, Faith Unleavened. I’m so grateful for Tamice’s friendship and excited for you to read their essay below!