Finding Beauty in Asking the Hard Questions – Steph Chandler Burns (BA 2012, MTS 2017)
Grebel's 60 Stories Project | Steph Chandler Burns (they/them) graduated from the University of Waterloo in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Social Development Studies and minoring in Peace and Conflict Studies. After working in medical records keeping for a few years following graduation, Steph returned to Grebel for a Master of Theological Studies degree in 2015. During Masters studies, Steph began exploring Queer Theology, looking at the intersections between queer identity and faith. Steph has a number of publications and presentations exploring the topics of Anabaptist faith, queer identity and the nature of God. They have worked at the intersections of faith and marginal identity since graduation in 2017, working with people on parole, in congregational ministry, and most recently with Pastors in Exile, an affirming, community-based ministry with young adults in Waterloo Region. Steph enjoys conversations about God, faith, meaning and activism. They also enjoy collecting tattoos, and are particularly proud of their Grebel stained-glass-inspired quarter sleeve. They live in Kitchener with their spouse, Greg, cat, Lulu, and over 200 board games.
