About the Project

The ‘Book of Sārîs’ is a community-based initiative designed to foster dialogue and reflection on gender identity and expression, particularly within rural and exurban church communities in Kentucky. The project involves a series of events where participants can contribute their thoughts to an illuminated, metal-bound tome, symbolizing the weight of the dialogue captured.

Who is behind ‘The Book of Sārîs’ project? The project is spearheaded by Madelyn Spalding, an interdisciplinary artist with a focus on identity, environmental justice, and social justice, alongside a team of volunteers and community partners.

Why was ‘The Book of Sārîs’ created? The project aims to bridge understanding and empathy between the Christian community and the transgender population, encouraging open dialogue and reflection on the intersection of faith, gender identity, and acceptance.

Participation

How can I contribute to ‘The Book of Sārîs’? Community members can contribute by attending events and sharing their thoughts, experiences, or reflections on gender identity, which will be included in the tome. Additionally, volunteers are needed to facilitate conversations, manage events, and support logistics.

Who can participate in the project? Everyone is welcome to participate, including Christian, transgender individuals, cisgender allies, and anyone interested in fostering a deeper understanding of gender diversity.

What roles are available for volunteers? Volunteers can serve as Community Outreach Coordinators, Event and Logistics Assistants, and in other roles that support the planning, execution, and follow-up of project events.

Events

Where and when will ‘The Book of Sārîs’ events take place? Events are scheduled across various rural and exurban communities in Kentucky from July 2023 through December 2024. Specific dates and locations will be announced on our website and social media channels.

What happens at an event? Each event begins with a church service addressing faith, gender identity, and acceptance, followed by an interactive session with Mad(E) and the tome where attendees can contribute their reflections.

Safety and Inclusivity

How do you ensure a safe space for dialogue at your events? Safety is our top priority. We work closely with community leaders and volunteers to create a respectful and compassionate environment, ensuring that all participants feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences.

Funding

How is ‘The Book of Sārîs’ funded? The project is supported through grants, donations, crowdfunding campaigns, and potentially revenue from book sales. We are committed to transparency and sustainability in our funding efforts.

Future Plans

What will happen to the contributions collected in ‘The Book of Sārîs’? The contributions will be compiled into a published book, intended to serve as a powerful testament to the community’s thoughts and insights on gender diversity. This book will be shared with the Kentucky Council of Churches and available for wider distribution.

How can I stay updated on ‘The Book of Sārîs’ progress? Please visit our website, sign up for our newsletter, and follow us on social media for the latest updates, event announcements, and opportunities to get involved.

By tailoring these FAQs to your project’s specific goals, methodology, and logistics, you’ll provide a valuable resource for your website visitors, encouraging their engagement and support for “The Book of Sārîs.”