Theme 1: Divine Disillusionment Narrative

Overview

These stories capture frustration with religious institutions, especially around money, sexuality, and gender identity. Jesse starts by admiring a religious figure but soon realises the person is manipulative, using religion for financial gain or promoting exclusionary beliefs. A strong feminist perspective runs through the stories, criticising patriarchal systems and pushing for reform. These stories aren't anti-religious per se, but rather express a desire for institutions to practice what they preach. Equality, inclusion, and integrity matter.

Story Stem

All story submissions begin with the same story stem or prompt.

32 unread messages. Jesse put down the phone, frustrated. How would Jesse get through the next few days? Looking for answers -- or distraction -- Jesse picked up the phone and started watching videos.

One video caught Jesse's eye. A remarkable individual, talking about something religious or spiritual. Jesse couldn't quite make it out, but Jesse was interested and found something impressive, maybe admirable, about the person.

So, Jesse continued watching and . . . .