Breaking Free: Cait West on Escaping Christian Patriarchy

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In this deeply moving and insightful episode of Faithful Politics, your political host Will Wright dives into an essential conversation with writer and editor Cait West.  The episode centers around Cait's journey of breaking away from the Christian Patriarchy Movement, which she details in her powerful new book, "Rift." She explains the metaphorical significance of the title, reflecting on her personal experiences and the geological imagery it conjures.

Cait provides an in-depth look at the Christian Patriarchy Movement, describing it as a strict ideology where men are seen as divinely appointed leaders, and women are groomed to be subservient. She shares her personal story of being a "stay-at-home daughter," expected to remain at home until marriage, with no access to college, dating, or jobs.

The conversation touches on the broader implications of patriarchy, exploring how it impacts gender roles, personal autonomy, and religious beliefs. Kate also discusses the difficult process of leaving this movement, the emotional and practical challenges involved, and the impact on her relationship with her family.

Will and Cait discuss the intersection of politics and religion, the rise of Christian nationalism, and the implications for women's rights and bodily autonomy. Cait's insights into the authoritarian nature of the movement and its reactionary stance against feminism provide a compelling backdrop to her personal narrative.

Cait's memoir not only tells her story but also serves as a voice for others who have experienced similar trauma. She emphasizes the importance of validation, support, and the ongoing journey of healing. The episode concludes with a message of hope and resilience for those who may be experiencing similar struggles.

Buy her book, Rift: A Memoir of Breaking Away from Christian Patriarchy" https://a.co/d/8TJMMyi

About the guest

Cait West is a writer and editor based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her work has been published in The Revealer, Religion Dispatches, Fourth Genre, and Hawai`i Pacific Review, among others. As an advocate and a survivor of the Christian patriarchy movement, she serves on the editorial board for Tears of Eden, a nonprofit providing resources for survivors of spiritual abuse, and cohosts the podcast Survivors Discuss.

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