Teologická reflexe (Theological Reflection) is a peer-reviewed journal for theology that has been published continuously since 1995 (archive of the issues from 1995–2023). It publishes the results of original research in the fields of biblical studies, systematic, historical, practical and ecumenical theology, theological ethics and church history, as well as philosophy, religious studies, social work and other disciplines where they have an overlap with theology.
The journal focuses on the reflection and interpretation of biblical and Christian tradition, the experience of Christian faith, the processes of its communication and faith-motivated action in present and past social contexts. In addition to original research studies, it also publishes scholarly review articles and book reviews.
It is published twice a year in print and online (open access). It accepts articles in Czech, Slovak, English or German.
TEOLOGICKÁ REFLEXE, Vol 31 No 1 (2025), 54–74
Hľadanie identity ECAV na Slovensku vo vzťahu k transrodovým ľuďom
[The Search for ECAV Identity in Slovakia in Relation to Transgender People]
Ľubomír Batka
DOI: https://doi.org/10.14712/27880796.2025.4
published online: 02. 06. 2025
abstract
In the Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Slovakia (ECAV), the initially emotional rejection of transgenderism has been transformed into theological rationalization without dialogue with experts and transgender people. The term “gender ideology” is used imprecisely, serves to reject liberal attitudes towards LGBTIQ+ rights, and is based on conservative theological beliefs without a deeper analysis of gender studies. ECAV perceives gender ideology as a construction denying biological differences and refers to a superficial critique of radical feminism and transgenderism. ECAV’s position presents a conservative theological view that considers transidentity sinful and prohibits transgender people from spiritual service, thereby creating discriminatory conditions. It relies on a “theocentric” interpretation of the Bible and tradition, ignores scientific knowledge about gender identity, and binds the conscience of Evangelicals to strict adherence to sexual moral standards. It emphasizes a binary understanding of gender and the order of creation, linking transgenderism to original sin without offering real pastoral or social support. This stance legitimizes the stigmatization of transgender people and raises the question of whether it truly reflects an evangelical identity or is rather a tool for controlling the conscience and privacy of believers.
keywords: Evangelical Lutheran Church in Slovakia (ECAV); transgender; identity; discrimination; stigmatization
Hľadanie identity ECAV na Slovensku vo vzťahu k transrodovým ľuďom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
148 x 210 mm
periodicity: 2 x per year
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ISSN: 1211-1872
E-ISSN: 2788-0796