Renowned transgender Christian poet and theologian Jay Hulme will speak at the University of Lynchburg’s Snidow Chapel at 7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 26. The event is part of the annual Jennie Cutler Shumate Lecture and is free and open to the public.

A Leicester, United Kingdom, native, Hulme has been widely recognized for his literary and theological contributions. His work includes “The Vanishing Song,” “My Own Way: Celebrating Gender Freedom for Kids,” “The Backwoods Sermon,” and “Here Be Monsters.”

Hulme’s writing addresses concepts of faith, place, and identity for children, teens, and adults alike. He has a strong interest in queer rights and theology, and several of his adult poetry books are published by prestigious Christian publishers in the UK.

His thought-provoking speeches, performances, lectures, sermons, and frequent media appearances have engaged diverse audiences.

In addition to writing and speaking professionally, Hulme enjoys teaching poetry in schools and facilitating writing workshops. His so-called “sensitivity reads” offer a nuanced and inclusive approach to his literary endeavors.

Hulme’s visit to Lynchburg will kick off with a lunch discussion with two English classes, creating an informal setting for students to engage with his writing. Later that day, a pre-lecture dinner will be held with campus stakeholders, providing an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and connections.

“We hope that anyone who attends this lecture will be drawn into the beauty of his poetry, engaged by his storytelling, and develop a deeper understanding of how one’s spirituality, sexuality, gender identity, and other identities are interconnected,” said University Chaplain Nathan Albert.

On Tuesday, Albert and Interfaith Chaplain Jer Bryant ’03, ’10 MA will accompany Hulme and a few students to Washington, D.C. The trip will include a tour of the Washington National Cathedral, an evening song service, a dinner, and a lecture at WNC.

For more information, visit Hulme’s website or email Christie Rapp at the Spiritual Life Center at [email protected].