Blessed Saint Sebastian Order of (Queer Folk) A.B.N: 92 771 298 514

The Blessed Saint Sebastian Order of (Queer Folk) was established in Australia in 2024, and is dedicated to celebrating and fostering the spirituality and community of LGBTIQ+ folk and allies. Inspired by Saint Sebastian, a symbol of resilience within queer communities, the Order has a global mission "To foster healing and improve the quality of life for queer individuals, emphasizing advocacy for the unjustly accused, promoting equity within religious institutions, supporting theological students through fundraising initiatives, and providing resources and support to leaders."

The Order provides an inclusive environment for queer individuals and allies, aiming to create a safe space where everyone can explore and express their spirituality freely, without fear of discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. At its core, the Blessed Saint Sebastian Order embodies the essence of queer identity, promoting resilience, inclusivity, and spiritual exploration within the queer community.

About Saint Sebastian
Saint Sebastian is recognized as an early emblem of homoerotic desire and is considered by some to be the patron saint of homosexuality. A martyr of the Christian faith in Rome during Emperor Diocletian's reign in 288 AD, Sebastian is often depicted in art and medals as a young man nearly naked and pierced with arrows, which carries distinct homoerotic undertones. While historical details about his personal life are sparse, Sebastian's appeal to queer communities arises from his aesthetic beauty and his steadfast response to persecution. Additionally, he is venerated as a protector against plagues, a significance that resonated deeply during the AIDS crisis. Sebastian reportedly survived an arrow attack and was later executed for standing up against Diocletian's cruelty towards Christians, a fate that mirrors the persecution experienced by many queer individuals who faced discrimination from religious institutions. Despite not being officially recognized, he remains a revered figure among gay men, as well as soldiers, archers, and athletes. Renowned Renaissance artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Titian immortalized Sebastian, further solidifying his enduring symbolism in gay literature and culture as a symbol of homoerotic desire.

Photo: Sebastian by Felix Uberbacher