Professor Converts from LGBT Activism
Rosaria Butterfield's life took an unexpected turn in 1997 when, as a tenured professor at Syracuse University, she found herself deeply embedded in the world of activism. Specializing in queer theory and feminist philosophy, Rosaria was an advocate for LGBT rights, living with her partner and actively participating in the academic and social community. Her views were clear: Christianity was problematic, and she saw its followers as menacing.
A Pastor's Unexpected Letter
While researching the Religious Right, Rosaria wrote a critical article about the Promise Keepers. This article caught the attention of Ken Smith, a pastor who reached out with a letter that was both kind and inquisitive. This letter sparked a friendship, inviting Rosaria into a world she had always viewed with skepticism.
Ken and his wife, Floy, welcomed her into their lives, offering genuine friendship without judgment. Through their relationship, Rosaria began to explore the Bible—not just as a research tool, but as a source of personal truth. She was struck by the realization that if God was indeed the creator, then the Bible held the authority to question her life and beliefs.
Academic Conversion to Faith
This journey led to a profound transformation. In 1999, Rosaria surrendered to a new faith in Jesus Christ. She described this conversion as a "train wreck at the hand of the supernatural," radically altering her identity and relationships. Despite losing much of her former life, she gained a new identity in Christ.
Life Transformed Through Jesus
Rosaria's life changed dramatically. She ended her relationship with her partner and, in 2001, married Kent Butterfield, a pastor. They adopted four children and settled in Durham, NC, where Rosaria became a speaker and author, sharing her story of faith and transformation.
Rosaria emphasizes that her conversion was not from homosexuality, but from unbelief. She now passionately advocates for Christians to offer true community and belonging, especially to those leaving their past lives behind. Jesus, she insists, was the one who transformed her life, leading her from activism to a devoted life of faith and service.
