Academic Atheist Opposes Christianity
Rosaria Butterfield was a respected academic and a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, living in Syracuse, New York. With a Ph.D. in English Literature, she had a thriving career at Syracuse University, where she was known for her feminist and queer theory work. Viewing Christianity as problematic, she taught her students to dismiss the Bible. However, her life took an unexpected turn in 1997 when she wrote an article criticizing the evangelical organization Promise Keepers. This article caught the attention of Ken Smith, the pastor of Syracuse Reformed Presbyterian Church. Rather than responding with hostility, Ken invited Rosaria to dinner at his home, initiating a friendship that would profoundly change her life.
God's Word Changes Everything
For two years, Rosaria met regularly with Ken and his wife, Floy. Through these dinners, she was introduced to the Bible in a way that challenged her assumptions. Her initial approach was to dismantle it, but over time, the Word of God began to resonate with her. As she later described, "the Word of God got to be bigger inside me than I." Despite her misgivings, she sensed a compelling truth in the teachings of Jesus.
Train Wreck Conversion Experience
In 1999, Rosaria experienced what she called a 'train wreck conversion.' Her previous identity as an atheist and a lesbian activist collided with a new understanding of faith. She realized that her true identity was not defined by her sexuality but by her relationship with Jesus. "That new affection was not heterosexuality, but Jesus, my Jesus, my friend and Savior," she reflected.
Life Transformed by Faith
Following her conversion, Rosaria's life transformed dramatically. She ended her same-sex relationship and embraced a new life centered around her Christian faith. In 2001, she married Kent Butterfield, a Reformed Presbyterian pastor, and devoted herself to ministry, writing, and speaking about her journey. She became an advocate for 'radically ordinary hospitality,' believing that Christians should create communities of belonging for all, particularly those leaving behind previous ways of life.
Through her writings and public speaking, Rosaria shares her story to give glory to Jesus, emphasizing that her transformation was not about shifting identities but about finding truth and salvation in Christ.