Skip to main content
Spotify for Podcasters
Horror Nerds at Church

Horror Nerds at Church

By Pace Warfield-May & Rev. Emily E. Ewing

Horror Nerds at Church is a ridiculously queer podcast about theology and horror movies. Hosted by Pace Warfield-May and Rev. Emily E. Ewing.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Stitcher Logo
Currently playing episode

Attack from the ‘80s with Eugene Johnson, Lee Murray, and Ben Monroe

Horror Nerds at ChurchSep 16, 2021

00:00
01:48:08
Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)

Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)

Ecto Emily (they/them) and Podcast Pace (they/them) cover the latest installment of the Ghostbusters franchise. We talk science, practically start the Phoebe fan club, and just how do you spell Revelation (Hint: NO S!)? Grab a bag of Stay Puffed marshmallows and give a listen! 

Media Referenced: 

-Mother’s Day Proclamation 

-The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lack by Rebecca Skloot (which Pace mistakenly refers to as the Secret Life of Harriet Lack… whoopsie!) 
Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Jun 01, 202301:37:45
Casper (1995) with Emily Ann Garcia

Casper (1995) with Emily Ann Garcia

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by Emily Ann Garcia (she/they) to talk about 1995’s Casper. We talk about agency, afterlife, and parenting. Also, is Casper part of the Ghostbusters canon? 

-Emily Ann Garcia’s ko-fi and guest appearances on Nerds at Church YEAR B and YEAR C.


Media Referenced:
Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

May 25, 202301:49:31
Ghostbusters (2016) with Brooke McLain

Ghostbusters (2016) with Brooke McLain

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by Brooke McLain (she/her) to talk Ghostbusters (2016). We get into shooting like girls and the sexist backlash to this film. Also, what is up with the weird Macy’s Day floats? 

Check out our season 6 announcement! Check out Brooke’s instagram!
Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

May 18, 202301:20:39
The Devil's Backbone (2001) with Abel Arroyo Traverso
May 11, 202352:12
Ghostbusters II (1989)

Ghostbusters II (1989)

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are back at it for Ghostbusters II (1989). We talk about development hell, psychomagnotheric slime, and the Statue of Liberty. Also, don't scare the straights! Or do. We won't judge. Media Referenced:

-Pace's Doubting Thomas sermon (begins at the 13 minute mark)

-Star Wars the High Republic series

-Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

-Tema Okun's Characteristics of White Supremacy 


Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

May 04, 202350:32
Minisode 12: Polyamory part 3 with Brian G. Murphy

Minisode 12: Polyamory part 3 with Brian G. Murphy

Emily (they/them) and Pace (they/them) are joined by Brian G. Murphy (he/him/they), co-host of the Queer Theology podcast and co-founder of QueerTheology.com, to talk about polyamory, the Bible, and theology. Download a transcript of this episode here

CW: discussions of queerphobia, human sexuality, and relationships, and sexual assault

Media mentioned: 

-Find Brian G. Murphy on instagram (thisisbgm) and his website and on QueerTheology.com 

-Horror Nerds at Church Minisode 8-What is Polyamory? And Minisode 9-Theology of Polyamory

-Is the Homosexual My Neighbor by Virginia Ramey Mollenkott

-Why Christianity Must Change or Die by John Shelby Spong 

-Radical Love by Patrick S. Cheng 


Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

May 02, 202347:17
The Sixth Sense (1999) with Rich Holleque
Apr 27, 202301:11:38
Ghostbusters (1984) with Bobby Torrez

Ghostbusters (1984) with Bobby Torrez

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by Bobby Torrez (he/him) of Bobby Likes it Spooky to cover the classic 1984 film Ghostbusters! We talk about Slimer, Marshmallow goo, and Venkman's sexism. Also, just how many hours a day are they making poor Janine answer phones? 


Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Apr 20, 202301:13:20
Minisode 11: The Black Guy Dies First with Robin R. Means Coleman and Mark Harris

Minisode 11: The Black Guy Dies First with Robin R. Means Coleman and Mark Harris

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by Dr. Robin R. Means Coleman (she/her) and Mark Harris (he/him), co-authors of the book The Black Guy Dies First! We talk about horror tropes, race and horror cinema, and whether or not we can say Candyman 5 times. Listen to all of this and more on this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

Media Referenced: 

-Horror Noire by Robin R. Means Coleman

-The Black Guy Dies First by Robin R. Means Coleman and Mark Harris 


Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Apr 18, 202344:33
The Changeling (1980)

The Changeling (1980)

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) kick of season 5 with the haunted house classic The Changeling. We talk about the difference between a haunted house and having ADHD, grief, and baptism. Also, whatever happened to the Carmichael's daughter? 

CW: disability/ableism, sexism/misogyny

Media Referenced: 

-Sign up for our newsletter!

-Nerds at Church Episode on Graveyards

-Nerds at Church Episode on the Grief Lectionary

-Queering Grief by Pace Warfield-May

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider! 


Apr 13, 202301:19:43
Jesus Camp (2006) with Ross Blocher
Apr 06, 202301:24:40
Nightmare on Elm Street Retrospective

Nightmare on Elm Street Retrospective

It's finally here, the retrospective for A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise and all of season 4! Plus, we give the rundown of what to expect in season 5. Also, which Nightmare on Elm Street continuity is which Gospel?

Support us on
Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Feb 28, 202302:11:51
BooTube 13: Dear Revolutionaries and Foundation with Lenny Duncan
Feb 23, 202358:52
The Shining (1980) with Horror Queers podcast

The Shining (1980) with Horror Queers podcast

Pace (they/them) is joined by Trace Thurman (he/him) and Joe Lipsett (he/him) of Bloody Disgusting's Horror Queers podcast to talk about Stanley Kubrick's The Shining. We talk about dreams, cigarette ash, labyrinths, and domestic violence. And of course, what is up with that bear scene?

CW: discussions about domestic violence

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Feb 02, 202301:15:17
A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)

A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)

Emily (they/them) and Pace (they/them) discuss the remake. We talk satanic panic, believing kids, and plastic CGI effects. Also, take your meds! 

CW: sexual assault, pedophilia, and victim blaming

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Jan 06, 202353:06
Terror Train (1980)

Terror Train (1980)

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) ring in the new year with Terror Train, a golden age slasher full of fun, magic, and gore. We talk New Year's Eve celebrations, illusions, and frat parties on trains. Also, what train doesn't have a working phone or radio?

CW: transphobia, misogyny, harmful stigmas around mental illness

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Dec 29, 202201:17:20
Krampus (2015)

Krampus (2015)

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) discuss the holiday classic Krampus. We talk killer gingerbread people, shepherds, and the nightmares of capitalist Christmas. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, y'all!

CW: discussion around antisemitism, the holocaust, classism, J.K. Rowling, and Victor Salva

Media referenced:
-
Krampus and Friends Holiday Special by Stuff You Missed in History Class
-Our holiday cards!

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Dec 25, 202201:24:34
The Wicker Man (1973) with Howard David Ingham

The Wicker Man (1973) with Howard David Ingham

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by Howard David Ingham (they/them) to discuss the classic The Wicker Man (1973). We talk conservative morals, cult cinema, and Wicker-Mansplaining. Also, they do love their divinity lessons!

CW: pedophilia, fascism, and cults

Media referenced:
-We Don't Go Back and Cult Cinema by Howard David Ingham
-T.A.Z: The Temporary Autonomous Zone by Hakim Bey
-The Mists of Avalon by Mary Ann Zimmer Bradley

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Dec 22, 202201:32:49
Freddy vs. Jason (2003), Again

Freddy vs. Jason (2003), Again

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) cover Freddy vs. Jason. Who is Emily rooting for? What Trinitarian formulas do Pace and Emily decide on?

CW: mental illness and institutionalization, stigma around disability, child molestation and murder, sexual assault mention

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Dec 22, 202201:33:58
Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022) with River Cook Needham
Dec 08, 202201:32:43
Wes Craven's New Nightmare (1994)
Dec 02, 202201:08:57
The Addams Family (1991) with Elle Dowd

The Addams Family (1991) with Elle Dowd

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by Rev. Elle Dowd (she/they) to talk about 1991's The Addams Family! We discuss queer family, the nature of horror, and the joys of games like "Is there a God?" Check out all of this and more in this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

CW: abusive families, trafficking, trauma

Media referenced:

-Our holiday cards!
-Check out this article about telling the truth about Thanksgiving by Jackie Menjivar.  Also, check out 7 Books About Thanksgiving from Native Perspective
-Elle Dowd's book, Baptized in Tear Gas
-Sign up for the course on Dear Revolutionaries with Revs Lenny Duncan and Elle Dowd here

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Nov 24, 202201:18:57
Minisode 10: Podcast Tips and Tricks with Nerds at Church
Nov 21, 202201:00:54
Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991) with JR Lux

Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991) with JR Lux

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by JR Lux (she/they) to talk about 1991's Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare. We talk about disability, rolling down hills, and CGI dream demons.

CW: Self-harm, suicide, childhood sexual assault, and domestic violence

Media referenced:

-Our holiday cards!
-Hello Cruel World: 101 Alternatives to Suicide by Kate Bornstein

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Nov 17, 202201:07:55
Sunshine (2007) with Brandon Grafius

Sunshine (2007) with Brandon Grafius

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by Brandon Grafius (he/him) to talk about the 2007 film Sunshine! We talk about doubt, theosis, sunburns, and an excess of manliness. Find out all of this and more on this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

Media referenced:

-Our holiday cards!

-Lurking Under the Surface: Horror, Religion, and the Questions that Haunt Us by Brandon Grafius

-The Tapestry episode with Brandon Grafius

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Nov 10, 202201:14:16
A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child (1989) with Suzannah Porter
Nov 03, 202202:11:57
Halloween Ends (2022) with Ben Monroe

Halloween Ends (2022) with Ben Monroe

Pace (they/them) is joined by returning guest Ben Monroe (he/him) to talk about the final entry in David Gordon Green's Halloween trilogy, Halloween Ends. We talk evil, Rene Girard's scapegoat theory, and more. Evil doesn't die, it just changes shape.

CW: discussion of mental illness as depicted in film

Media referenced:

-In the Belly of the Beast by Ben Monroe

-Ben Monroe's article, "The Noble Art of Scaring People for their Own Good"

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Oct 31, 202201:03:30
A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master (1988)

A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master (1988)

Join Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) as they discuss looking in mirrors, dream gates, and reclaiming identity in 1988's A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master!

CW: discussions of transphobia and the harm of JK Rowling in our deep dive

Media referenced:
-Buy some of our
holiday cards!
-Kay Lynch's tweet about reconstructing identity in Dream Master
-Sins of the Parent in Pace's queeries

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Oct 27, 202201:30:09
Hocus Pocus 2 with Nerds at Church

Hocus Pocus 2 with Nerds at Church

Pace (they/them), Emily (they/them) are joined by Kay (she/her), who along with Emily, cohosts our sibling podcast, Nerds At Church, to talk capitalism, queerness (and TERFdom), and community in this episode on 2022’s Hocus Pocus 2.  Follow Nerds At Church on Facebook and Twitter!

Submit your pet (or stuffed animal or plant) for our 2nd Annual Halloween Pet Costume Contest by going to bit.ly/hnacPetContest22.


Media referenced:
#HQSpookySeason movie calendar created by Horror Queers
Last year’s Hocus Pocus episode, also with Nerds At Church
Garfunkel and Oates - The Loophole
On Repentance and Repair by Rabbi Ruttenberg
God’s Holy Darkness by Sharei Green

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Oct 21, 202201:33:35
A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (1987)

A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (1987)

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) talk the importance of community, fairy tale magic, and holy water in this episode on 1987’s A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors.

Submit your pet (or stuffed animal or plant) for our 2nd Annual Halloween Pet Costume Contest by going to bit.ly/hnacPetContest22.

CW: discussion of death by suicide in the deep dive

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Oct 13, 202256:13
Suspiria (1977)

Suspiria (1977)

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) talk Nazi architecture, witchcraft & whispers, and the horror of ableism in the dreamy movie that is Suspiria.

Submit your pet (or stuffed animal or plant) for our 2nd Annual Halloween Pet Costume Contest (https://bit.ly/hnacPetContest22).  Join the diakonia.faith collective for a National Coming Out Day Worship Service online on October 11th.

CW: discussions of the Holocaust, ableism, and mental illness in the deep dive.

Media referenced:
-Nerds at Church Reformation 2021 episode and episode with Katie Hall
-Suspiria de Profundis by Thomas de Quincey
-HNAC's Monthly Newsletter

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Oct 06, 202201:22:27
A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge (1985)

A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge (1985)

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) talk queer cinema, body horror, and the bonkers movie that is A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge. Submit your pet (or stuffed animal or plant) for our 2nd Annual Halloween Pet Costume Contest by going to bit.ly/hnacPetContest22.

CW: discussion of homophobia and queerphobia and a brief discussion of body horror and gender dysphoria in the deep dive.

Media mentioned:
Pace mentions trans takes on body horror. Here are three examples: "Body Horror and Growing up Trans" by Cressa Beer, "How Body Horror Movies Helped Me Process Gender Dysphoria" by Nadine Smith, and "How Body Horror Movies Elucidate the Trans Experience and Gender Dysphoria" by Sophie Collins.

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Sep 29, 202201:13:38
Children of the Corn (1984)

Children of the Corn (1984)

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) talk corn puns, hyper religious cults, and the creepiness of corn children.

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Sep 22, 202201:04:21
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) with A Nightmare on Fierce Street Podcast

A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) with A Nightmare on Fierce Street Podcast

1, 2, Freddy’s Coming for You, 3, 4, get ready for more… of our podcast! Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by Trent (he/him) and Sharai (she/her) of the awesome podcast, A Nightmare on Fierce Street, to talk about the first entry in the Nightmare on Elm Street franchise.

Content warnings for this episode include discussions of paedophilia related to Freddy Kreuger’s backstory.

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Sep 15, 202201:59:04
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
Sep 08, 202257:48
Vampire Film Retrospective

Vampire Film Retrospective

Season 3 ends here folks as Emily (they/them) and Pace (they/them) rank all the films from the season, including the Twilight films. Also, we bring back your favorite segment, Matt misremembers s***!

CW: HIV/AIDS, discussion about human sexuality, racism, anti-Semitism, and queerphobia in the deep dive

Media mentioned:

-To learn more about what you can do to help in the aftermath of the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, check out podvoices.help/.

-Follow us on YouTube here. We don’t have anything posted yet, but stay tuned!

-The Diakonia.faith Pride Vigil can be found here

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Jun 30, 202201:40:09
Vampire Literature Retrospective

Vampire Literature Retrospective

Emily (they/them) and Pace (they/them) are joined by returning guest Page Stauffer (they/them) to discuss all things vampire literature! We trace the earliest vampire works in English through some of the biggest entries in the genre, then take a deep dive into the Twilight franchise, including some of the very bizarre entries from the Illustrated Guide. Also, does vampire venom glitter? Find out all of this and more on this episode of Horror Nerds at Church.

Media mentioned:

-Check out our Vampire Literature Syllabus here for all the books mentioned in the episode!

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Jun 23, 202202:36:23
30 Days of Night (2007)

30 Days of Night (2007)

Emily (they/them) and Pace (they/them) tackle 30 Days of Night, the vampire film based on the best selling comic by Steve Niles and illustrated by Ben Templesmith. We discuss prophetic strangers, messianic figures, and xenophobia. Also, how much do Emily and Pace love snow? Probably too much. Find out all of this and more on this latest episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

CW: discussions of domestic violence, abortion, xenophobia, and colonialism

Media mentioned:

-Emily mentions their Litany for Reproductive Justice and a Washington Post article they were featured in

-30 Days of Night by Steve Niles and illustrated by Ben Templesmith

-Mama, Do You Love Me? By Barbara M. Joose and illustrated by Barbara Lavallee

-Sweetest Kulu by Celina Kalluk and illustrated by Alexandria Neonakis

-How Nivi Got Her Names by Laura Deal and illustrated by Charlene Chua

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Jun 16, 202201:25:57
Minisode 9: Polyamory Series 2, Theology and Polyamory

Minisode 9: Polyamory Series 2, Theology and Polyamory

Emily (they/them) and Pace (they/them) discuss the various ways that the Bible and theology support polyamorous relationships, including discussions of the Trinity, the chosen family of Ruth, Boaz, and Naomi, and Pentecost.

CW: discussions of human sexuality and relationships, alcoholism and abuse in the real life church horror story submission

Media mentioned:

-Horror Nerds at Church Minisode 7-What is Polyamory?

-Nerds at Church take a deep dive into alcoholism and addiction on 2nd Sunday after Epiphany Year C

-The Queer God by Marcella Althaus-Reid

-Daniel Pinkham’s Wedding Cantata 

-The Ethical Slut by Janet W. Hardy and Dossie Easton

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Jun 14, 202201:11:35
Hotel Transylvania (2012) with Justin Thornburgh

Hotel Transylvania (2012) with Justin Thornburgh

Emily (they/them) and Pace (they/them) are joined by guest Rev. Justin Thornburgh (he/they) to discuss Hotel Transylvania! We discuss Justin’s work as a death doula before diving into themes of masculinities, child rearing, and safe spaces. Also, what do vampires turning into bats have in common with some youth pastors? Find out all of this and more in our latest episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

CW: racism, grief, and death mentions

Media mentioned:

-Find Justin on Instagram: Thresholds_eol

-A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Jun 09, 202201:21:49
The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (2012)

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2 (2012)

We’ve finally made it, spider-monkeys. Emily and Pace cover The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 2. We take a deep dive into purity culture, truth, and some of the ongoing racism of the series. Also, how many tries does it take to master a new skill? Find out all of this and more on this episode of Horror Nerds at Church.

CW: purity culture, racism, and anti-choice propaganda

Media mentioned:

Breaking Dawn by Stefanie Meyer

Nerds at Church Ascension 2021

Nerds at Church Ascension 2022 

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

May 26, 202201:17:11
Blade (1998) with Lenny Duncan

Blade (1998) with Lenny Duncan

Emily (they/them) and Pace (they/them) are joined by special guest, author, scholar, activist, artist, podcast co-host of Blackberry Jams, and pastor Rev. Lenny Duncan (they/them) to talk about the first cool Marvel movie, Blade. We nerd out about the comics before taking a deep dive into the state of the church, racism, and the rise of fascism. This conversation gets deep y’all, and this episode is definitely not one to miss.

CW: racism, sexual assault, and queerphobia

Media Mentioned:

-Dear Church by Lenny Duncan

-Preorder the expanded paperback edition of United States of Grace by Lenny Duncan through Broadleaf Books

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

May 20, 202202:25:37
The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 (2011) with Suzannah Porter
May 12, 202203:11:19
Interview with the Vampire (1994) with Alex Raabe

Interview with the Vampire (1994) with Alex Raabe

Vampires were never sexier (or gayer) than the 1994 film Interview with the Vampire. Emily (they/them) and Pace (they/them) are joined by Rev. Alex Raabe (he/him) to talk frilly clothes, longing stares, and the brooding existential wanderings of Louis. Also, how reliable of a narrator is Louis, anyway? Find out all of this and more on this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!
CW: queerphobia in the real life church horror story, slavery and sexual assault mentioned in relation to the film
Media Mentioned:
-Nerds at Church episode featuring Rev. Alex Raabe
-Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice
-”Interview with the Vampire TV Series - What We Know So Far” by Zoe Sadaozai Malik on
Looper.com
-Carmilla by Joseph Sheridan Lefanu
-Dracula by Bram Stoker
Find Alex Raabe on Twitter (@alexraabe) or Instagram (@aarabe).
Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, click this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!
May 05, 202201:39:01
The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (2010)

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (2010)

Vampires and werewolves and transfigurations, oh my! Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) continue their watch through of the Twilight franchise with The Twilight Saga: Eclipse. They take a deep dive into sex education, purity culture, and finding belonging. Also, does Esme have any vampire powers? Find out all of this and more in this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

CW: discussions of purity culture, racism, queerphobia, and toxic relationships

Media Referenced:

-Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

-Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer

-Short Second Life of Bree Tanner 

-Our Whole Lives Sex Education Resource for Faith Communities

-The ELCA’s statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust

-Nerds at Church’s episode on the Transfiguration (Year B)

-Nerds at Church’s episode on the Transfiguration (Year C)

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, click this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Apr 21, 202201:42:44
The Passion of the Christ (2004)

The Passion of the Christ (2004)

It’s Holy Week so Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) tackle one of the most horrific films about Jesus ever made, The Passion of the Christ. We talk about the gore, the anti-Semitism, and whether this movie should truly be classified as a horror film. Also, why is Jesus so white? Find out all of this and more in this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

CW: discussions of anti-Semitism and queerphobia

Media Referenced:

-Nerds at Church’s Good Friday and Easter episodes

-Horror Nerds at Church’s interview with Richard Lindsay
-The song Watch the Lamb by Don Francisco

-Hollywood Biblical Epics by Richard Lindasy

-Dracula by Bram Stoker

-Cast Out of the Covenant by Adele Reinhartz

-Preaching without Contempt by Marilyn J. Salmon

-Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons 

-Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James

-Two Archaeologists Comment on The Passion of the Christ (PDF) by Dr. Andrea Berlin and Dr. Jodi Magness

-Christian Anti-Semitism: Past History, Present Challenges Reflections in Light of Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ by John T. Pawlikowski

-”I didn’t see any Anti-Semitism’: Why many Christians don’t have a Problem with The Passion of the Christ by Mary C. Boys

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, click this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Apr 14, 202201:46:38
The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009) with Kelsey Brown
Apr 07, 202201:36:37
Daughters of Darkness (1971) with Brenda Bos
Mar 31, 202201:35:19
Minisode 8: Polyamory Series 1, What is Polyamory?

Minisode 8: Polyamory Series 1, What is Polyamory?

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) talk polyamory. We talk about polyamory, relationship anarchy, God’s abundant love, and a brief history of polyamory. We end with a real life church polyamory story submitted by anonymous.

Content warnings: We talk about human sexuality and complexity of relationships in this episode.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
-Nerds at Church’s
episode on Relationship Anarchy.

-Queering Psychology’s “Polyamory 101

-NPR’s article “A Cultural Moment for Polyamory

-this overview of relationship anarchy

-The book The Ethical Slut: Revised Edition by Janet W. Hardy and Dossie Easton

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, click this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Mar 29, 202253:02
Twilight (2008) with T.J. Tranchell

Twilight (2008) with T.J. Tranchell

Pace (they/them) and Emily (they/them) are joined by horror author T.J. Tranchell (he/him) to talk about Twilight. We talk about sparkly vampires, relationship red flags, and take a deep dive into the Mornon theological subtext of the film.  Also, does this episode include our scariest real-life church horror story? Find out all of this and more in this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

Content warnings: discussions about purity culture, domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault mentions in relationship to the film

Books Referenced:

-T.J. Tranchell’s books Cry Down Dark, Tell No Man, Asleep in the Nightmare Room, and The Private Life of Nightmare can all be purchased from his website.

-Twilight and Midnight Sun by Stephanei Meyer

-Divergent by Veronica Roth

-Does the Dog Die? is a website that crowd sources common emotional spoilers and triggers

-Pace mentions this Vanity Fair interview with Catherine Hardwicke

-Katya and Jujubee of RuPaul’s Drag Race fame provide a commentary on the Twilight films here.

-The Nerds at Church Body of Christ episode can be found here or wherever you get your podcasts

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Mar 24, 202201:59:18
BooTube 6 Part 1: Vampire Hunter D (1985)

BooTube 6 Part 1: Vampire Hunter D (1985)

Pace (they/them) is joined by returning guest co-host Rev. Abel Arroyo Traverso (he/they) along with guests Rev. Jennie Chrien (she/her) and Rev. Steven Simpson (he/him) to talk about the anime OVA Vampire Hunter D (1985). Stay tuned for BooTube 6: Part 2 on the anime follow-up Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust (2000), dropping April 1st exclusively on Patreon.

CW: Brief discussion of stomach illness, sexism, eugenics, and aftereffects of the nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki are all mentioned in relation to the film.

Books and Media Mentioned:

-Pace mentions their own Gettysburg ghost story on Minisode 4 of Horror Nerds at Church.

-Vampire Hunter D Omnibus: Book 1 containing the light novels Vampire Hunter D and Vampire Hunter D: Demon Deathchase by Hideyuki Kikuchi, illustrated by Yoshitaka Amano, translated into English by Kevin Leahy

For more information about the theology of the cross that is brought up in the deep dive, check out these books:

-The Scandalous God: The Use and the Abuse of the Cross by Vitor Westhelle

-Crossing the Divide: Luther, Feminism, and the Cross by Deanna A. Thompson

-The Cross and the Lynching Tree by James H. Cone

-The Crucified God: 40th Anniversary Edition by Jürgen Moltmann

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Mar 22, 202201:06:54
Dracula (1931)

Dracula (1931)

Pace (they/them) is joined by co-host Rev. Emily E. Ewing (of Nerds at Church and Queerying.org fame) all season long to talk about vampires, starting with the one and only Dracula. We discuss vampire lore, science vs. superstition vs. religion, connections between vampires and the Eucharist (communion), and ponder on whether Dracula is actually a tragic hero? Also, is Dracula really queer, or is that just us? Find out all of this and more in this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

Content warnings: queer coding and queer phobia, sucide mention in deep dive

Media mentioned:

-Dracula by Bram Stoker

-Interview with Emily in Horror Nerds At Church’s February Newsletter

-Nerds at Church Transfiguration Year B Episode with Emily Ann Garcia

-Stuff You Missed in History Class’ episodes on Bram Stoker and on Bela Lugosi (Part 1 and Part 2)

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Mar 17, 202202:03:03
Season 3: Twilight and Vampires Trailer

Season 3: Twilight and Vampires Trailer

A sneak peek at Season 3: Twilight and Vampires! The first episode of season 3 drops Thursday, March 17, 2022.

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Mar 12, 202204:57
Friday the 13th Retrospective with Matt Warfield-May

Friday the 13th Retrospective with Matt Warfield-May

Finally, finally, the Friday the 13th Retrospective. Pace is joined by their husband and the podcast editor, Matt Warfield-May to talk all things Jason. We talk about hell, the hero’s journey, and rank the franchise. And! Listen to the end for the complete list of season 3 episodes!
Books Mentioned:
-The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell
-Freddy vs. Jason vs. Ash by James Kuhoric and illustrated by Jason Craig (story by Jeff Katz)
-Crystal Lake Memories by Peter M. Bracke
Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!
Feb 17, 202201:24:38
Midnight Kiss (2019) with River Cook Needham

Midnight Kiss (2019) with River Cook Needham

Pace (they/them) is joined by special guest co-host River Cook Needham (she/her), frequent contributor to Queerying.org, to talk about Blumhouse Studios Into the Dark: Midnight Kiss. We talk New Years’ Eve celebrations, chosen families, queer culture, and more. Also, what does healthy and ethical non-mongamy look like? Find out all of this and more on this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

Content warnings: sexual assault mention and a mention of needles as depicted in the film

Books Mentioned:

-Our Bodies are Sacred: Theology Beyond Cisgender Heterosexuality in Currents in Theology and Misison

-Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Dec 30, 202149:28
Gremlins (1984) with Emily E. Ewing and JR Lux

Gremlins (1984) with Emily E. Ewing and JR Lux

Merry Christmas! Pace (they/them) is joined by guest co-host Emily E. Ewing (they/them) and special guest JR Lux (she/they) to talk about the 1980s classic Gremlins. We talk ontological shifts, alignment charts, sci-fi references, and Christmas chaos. Check out JR’s instagram here: www.instagram.com/popculture_and_monsters. Access a transcript of this episode here.
Content warnings: queerphobia mention in real life church horror story and discussion about white supremacy and racism in the deep dive.
Books Mentioned:
-For more information and theological reflection about commodification of the environment, check out Super, Natural Christians by Sallie McFague
-Ceramic Uncles and Celluloid Mammies by Patricia Turner
Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!
Dec 25, 202101:19:42
Batman Returns (1992) with Page Stauffer
Dec 23, 202101:23:42
Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984) with JM Longworth
Dec 16, 202101:06:22
Friday the 13th (2009) with Olivia LaFlamme Washington
Dec 09, 202101:06:03
HNAC’s Queer Holiday Survival Guide with Suzannah Porter (Minisode 7)

HNAC’s Queer Holiday Survival Guide with Suzannah Porter (Minisode 7)

Pace (they/them) is joined by special guest Suzannah Porter (she/her) to bring you Horror Nerds at Church’s Queer Holiday Survival Guide! This episode features some tips on how to make it through the holidays for members of our queer community who have to navigate an often unsafe or at very least frustrating or stressful holiday season. We give tips on how to spend time with your chosen family, how to safety plan, and some clever tech tips to create an easy excuse or exit strategy. We also give some tips for allies to queer folk, whether in your own family of origin or among your friend or chosen family group. And, we give a teaser for our upcoming January BooTube episode!
Read our transcript of this episode here.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
-Trans Lifeline (https://translifeline.org/ or 877.565.8860)
-The Trevor Project (https://www.thetrevorproject.org/–you can call and text from that website)
-Crisis Text Line (https://www.crisistextline.org/ or text START to 741741)
-BetterHelp (https://www.betterhelp.com/)
-TalkSpace (https://www.talkspace.com/)
-ReconcilingWorks (https://www.reconcilingworks.org/)
-There are a variety of resources on how to find a welcoming congregation, including The Institute for Welcoming Resources and QueerTheology.com’s guide on “How to find a Welcoming Congregation.”
Content warnings: queer trauma, brief depression and sucide mention, and just general queer folks dealing with sometimes unaffirming families and faith communities during the holiday season and everything that comes with that.
Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, email us at
horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!
Dec 05, 202158:37
Freddy vs. Jason (2003) with Abel Arroyo Traverso
Dec 02, 202101:00:15
Addams Family Values (1993) with Elle Dowd

Addams Family Values (1993) with Elle Dowd

They’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky, they’re… the Addams Family! Pace and guest co-host Emily E. Ewing are joined by special guest, Elle Dowd to talk about the film Addams Family Values. We begin by talking about Elle’s book, Baptized in Tear Gas, before taking a deep dive into the queer readings of this film, Wednesday’s Thanksgiving play, and much more! Also, are the Addams family queer icons? Find out all of this and more on this episode of Horror Nerds at Church. And! Don’t forget to check out Elle’s book, Baptized in Tear Gas!

Also, check out this article about telling the truth about Thanksgiving by Jackie Menjivar.

Content warnings: sanist language and discussion of domestic violence relating to the film

Media mentioned:

-Baptized in Tear Gas by Elle Dowd

-Stuff You Missed in History Class’ episodes on Charles Addams: Part 1 and Part 2

-How to Survive a Summer by Nick White

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Nov 24, 202101:42:07
Minisode 6: Two Sensitive Stories

Minisode 6: Two Sensitive Stories

Join host Pace and guest co-host Emily E. Ewing as they read YOUR real life church horror stories. In today’s episode, they read two intense stories. Check out this minisode of Horror Nerds at Church!

Content warnings: suicide, sex offender, and child pornography

If you are contemplating suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Nov 23, 202132:02
What Lies Beneath (2000) with Allyson Waldon
Nov 18, 202157:31
Jason X (2003) with Alyssa and Cory Coberforward

Jason X (2003) with Alyssa and Cory Coberforward

Jason X (or is it Jason 10 or even Jason Chi?) hit the screens in 2003 after a troubled production. We encounter a dystopian sci-fi future where nanobots can turn Jason into a cyborg and androids can do Matrix-style fighting techniques. In this episode, Joe and Pace are joined by Alyssa and Rev. Cory Coberforward (host of Spiritual Sunshine) as we talk about Jason X. Also, who would win: UberJason or Captain Janeway? Find out all of this and more in this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

And check out our new merch store! Find it here: https://bit.ly/HNACMerchStore!

Content warnings: occasional sanist and ableist language

Books Mentioned:

-The Left Behind series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins

-The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Nov 11, 202101:45:59
Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday (1993)
Nov 04, 202101:20:17
Halloween Kills (2021) with Matt Warfield-May and Elle Mills-Warner

Halloween Kills (2021) with Matt Warfield-May and Elle Mills-Warner

It’s finally here! Happy Halloween! And tune in for our special episode on Halloween Kills, the latest entry in David Gordon Green’s Halloween trilogy. Evil dies tonight! Or something like that. Elle Mills-Warner and Matt Warfield-May return as guests. Content warnings: mentions of grief and trauma in discussion of the film Books Mentioned: -Stokely Carmichael, Black Power and the Third World  Support us on Patreon! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Oct 31, 202101:21:10
The Witch (2015) with Elle Mills-Warner
Oct 28, 202101:42:45
Friday the 13th Part VIII (1989) with Carla Christopher Wilson

Friday the 13th Part VIII (1989) with Carla Christopher Wilson

After seven entries to the franchise, Jason is finally ready to leave the shores of Crystal Lake and take his slasher spree to… Vancouver?!? Co-hosts Joe and Pace are joined by Rev. Carla Christopher Wilson to talk about gooey Jason, what the point of horror is, and the hellish imagery peppered throughout the film. Pace mentions Tom Ellis reading Thirst Tweets, which can be found here. Also, check out our pet costume contest! Our official rules are here, submissions due 10/27/21.

Content warnings: the occasional use of sanist language, and mention of the HBO television show about weight-loss cult, the Weigh Down.

Books mentioned:

-Dante’s Inferno

-John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress

-Howard V. Hong’s The Essential Kierkegaard

Support us on Patreon! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Oct 21, 202101:46:58
Minisode 5: Purity Culture and Mission Trips
Oct 19, 202119:46
Friday the 13th Part VII with JennaMarie Warfield

Friday the 13th Part VII with JennaMarie Warfield

Who will win in the epic showdown between a telekinetic young woman and the undead Jason? Joe and Pace are joined by musician JennaMarie Warfield to discuss Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood and take a deep dive into body horror, super-powered final girls, and gaslighting. Also, what is the psychologist’s plan in this movie? It makes no sense.

Books mentioned:

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

Crystal Lake Memories by Peter M. Bracke

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please visit https://www.thehotline.org/ or call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).

Content warnings: body horror around childbirth and childrearing, domestic violence, and occasional sanist language

Support us on Patreon! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Oct 14, 202101:56:14
Hocus Pocus (1993) with Nerds at Church

Hocus Pocus (1993) with Nerds at Church

We are joined by our sibling podcast, Nerds at Church, to discuss one of the most popular family horror-comedies of all time. How many times does this film contain the word virgin? Who is the coolest witch of them all? And what does this movie have to do with baptism? Join Joe and Pace as we talk about this Halloween classic.
CW: mention of sexual assault and mention of ICE, lots of talk about virginity; real life horror story includes discussions of queerphobic church leaders
Books (and other media) Mentioned:
-Hocus Pocus in Focus by Aaron Wallace
-Hocus Pocus and the All-New Sequel by A.W. Jantha
-The video lecture Pace mentioned is Holding it Straight: Sexual Orientation in the Middle Ages by Robert Mills (please note that the lecture may include images not suitable for work)
-Blood Drips on Newsies Square is the short horror film from the set of the Newsies that Kay mentioned
Support us on Patreon! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!
Oct 07, 202102:05:24
Patreon and October Line-up Announcement
Oct 06, 202121:30
The People Under the Stairs (1991) with 1991 Movie Rewind Podcast
Oct 04, 202101:39:50
Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives (1986) with Abel Arroyo Traverso

Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives (1986) with Abel Arroyo Traverso

Is Jason the queer undead come to get vengence on cisgender straight people? Does Jason have super powers beyond “just” being undead? How many raccoons would you rate this movie? And, does Jason workout at OrangeTheory? Join Joe and Pace as we talk with Abel Arroyo Traverso, co-host of the Chaotic Bisexual Text Study Podcast, about the sixth entry in the Friday the 13th franchise.

CW: pray the gay away mention, church-related queerphobia, police violence mention

Books Mentioned:
Crystal Lake Memories by Peter M. Bracke

Death Count by Stacie Ponder

The Queer God and Indecent Theology by Marcella Althaus-Reid

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Sep 30, 202101:28:39
Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning
Sep 23, 202101:05:54
Attack from the ‘80s with Eugene Johnson, Lee Murray, and Ben Monroe

Attack from the ‘80s with Eugene Johnson, Lee Murray, and Ben Monroe

Pack up your boom box, strap on your glitter jelly flats, perm that hair, and join us for an extra special episode on the forthcoming horror anthology Attack from the ‘80s edited by Eugene Johnson and published by Raw Dog Screaming Press. Pace interviews the editor of the volume, Eugene Johnson, as well as two of the authors in the collection, Lee Murray and Ben Monroe. We talk about 80s culture and politics, what makes the 80s such a golden age of horror, and about how the horror genre can help create chosen family. Tune in for all of this and more! And don’t forget to preorder the book by clicking the link below!

CW: brief mentions of death, serial killers, cults, HIV/AIDS epidemic, drug addiciton, transphobia, violence against women, trauma, repressed memories, satanic panic, colonialism, and the military, occasional saneist language

Books Mentioned:

-Attack from the ‘80s edited by Eugene Johnson—preorder here.

-Black Cranes: Tales of Unquiet Women edited by Lee Murray and Geneve Flynn

-The Stand by Stephen King

-Cabal by Clive Barker

-There Is No Death, There Are No Dead edited by Aaron J. French and Jess Landry

-Congregations of the Dead by James A. Moore and Charles R. Rutledge

-The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell

-Michelle Remembers by Michelle Smith and Lawrence Pazder

-Seal Team 666 by Weston Ochse

-Burning Sky by Weston Ochse

-Tales of the Lost Volume II: A Charity Anthology for Covid-19 Relief edited by Eugene Johnson and Steve Dillon

-Hounds of the Underworld: The Path of Ra Book One by Dan Rabarts and Lee Murray

-Were Tales: A Shapeshifter Anthology edited by S.D. Vassallo and Steven M. Long

-Asian Ghost Short Stories (forthcoming) by Flame Tree Press with associate editor Lee Murray

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Sep 16, 202101:48:08
Friday the 13th The Final Chapter (1984)
Sep 09, 202101:40:28
Friday the 13th Part III 3D (1982)
Sep 02, 202101:25:10
The Lost Boys (1987) with Ben Monroe

The Lost Boys (1987) with Ben Monroe

Grab your saxophone, but don’t worry about grabbing a shirt, and come out to the Santa Carla Boardwalk to join hosts Joe and Pace as they talk about the greatest vampire comedy film ever made, The Lost Boys. This episode also features special guest, horror author Ben Monroe, as we take a deep dive into Eucharistic theology (theology about holy communion), creating ritual, and homoerotic vampires. Ben Monroe talks about his short story “The Devil in the Details” in the forthcoming horror anthology Attack from the ‘80s, which you can preorder here. Also, could Lutheran vampires exist? Find out all of this and more in this episode of Horror Nerds at Church!

CW: mention of sexual assault in relation to a plotline in the television show Buffy the Vampire Slayer, discussion of HIV/AIDS in the deep dive, and a mention of bad theology around abortion toward the end of the episode

Books Mentioned:

At the Mountains of Madness by H.P. Lovecraft

Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie

Crystal Lake Memories by Peter M. Bracke

Interview with a Vampire and The Vampire Lestat by Anne Rice

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Aug 26, 202101:20:43
Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)

Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)

Well, five years have passed since Camp Crystal Lake was shuttered… yet again… and now word is that there is a new attempt to turn neighboring camp facilities into a camp counselor training program? Join hosts Joe and Pace as they talk about the second entry in the Friday the 13th franchise, where Jason seemingly rises from the dead to avenge the death of his mother. We take a deep dive into the queer clobber passages, mimetic desire, the grand narrative, and evolution of the final girl. Also, is it just us, or should Jason get a career in interior decorating? Find out all of this and more in this episode of Horror Nerds at Church. CW: use of the term crazy in the name of a character from the film, discussion of the clobber passages, and mention of HIV/AIDS Books Mentioned: Crystal Lake Memories by Peter M. Bracke The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell The Girard Reader by Rene Girard, ed. James G. Williams More Resources on the Clobber Passages: -The Queer Theology podcast has a lot of resources, articles, and courses on creating queer biblical perspectives. This episode, titled “Does Queer Sex Make Me Unclean,” addresses some of the frequent questions related to the clobber passages. -Daniel Helminiak’s book What the Bible Really Says About Homosexuality is an accessible and thorough refutation of the clobber passages. -Mel White, author of the book Clobber the Passages, gave a talk on the book and the passages at a Lavender Lunch for the Center for LGBTQ & Gender Studies in Religion. The talk can be viewed in its entirety here. -The Human Rights Campaign has a special resource called Out in Scripture which includes over 175 queer-affirming conversations about the Bible. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!
Aug 19, 202101:16:14
Friday the 13th (1980)
Aug 13, 202101:24:44
Interview with Richard Lindsay

Interview with Richard Lindsay

Join Joe and Pace as they interview special guest Richard Lindsay (author of Hollywood Biblical Epics and co-editor of poptheology.com) in this introductory episode to season 2. We talk about the intersection of pop culture and religion, camp and queer themes in Biblical epics, and take a deep dive into the 1973 classic The Exorcist. We also announce what franchise we will be covering this season of Horror Nerds at Church as well as quite a few other fun things! This episode is definitely not one to miss.
CW: talk about menstruation and other bodily functions in relation to the Exorcist film and talk of trauma around spiritual warfare language and a mention of conversion camp toward the end of the episode.
Books Mentioned:
Hollywood Biblical Epics: Camp Spectacle and Queer Style from the Silent Era to the Modern Day by Richard Lindsay
Notes on Camp by Susan Sontag
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!
Aug 12, 202101:14:50
The Mummy (1999)
Jul 29, 202101:47:15
Event Horizon (1997)

Event Horizon (1997)

Picture it: a star-studded cast, a big-budget sci-fi-horror feature, and master franchise director Paul W.S. Anderson at the helm! What could go wrong? Apparently a lot. Join Joe and Pace as we discuss Event Horizon and take a deep dive into the evolution of hell and remembrance as a theological motif. Also, stay the f---- on earth, friends! We mean you, billionaire CEOs of a giant corporation stealing the labor from your workers to ride your midlife crisis into space. I mean uh… what were we talking about again?
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!
Jul 22, 202101:03:22
The Ring (2002)
Jul 15, 202101:41:06
Minisode 4: Ghost Stories

Minisode 4: Ghost Stories

Joe and Pace tell ghost stories in this special outtake episode. Our regularly scheduled programming returns next week, July 15th, with our episode on the Ring (2002).

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Jul 08, 202115:14
Minisode 3
Jul 06, 202122:08
Psycho (1960)
Jul 01, 202101:09:39
Midsommar (2019)
Jun 24, 202101:54:31
Minisode 2
May 18, 202116:18
Minisode 1
May 04, 202129:41
Halloween II (1981) Remastered!

Halloween II (1981) Remastered!

We're rereleasing our Halloween episodes in preparation for Halloween Ends. To listen to the rest of season one or the uncut version of this episode, go to Patreon.com/HorrorNerdsAtChurch.

The follow-up to Halloween takes a grittier, bloodier, and more violent approach in an effort to keep up with the slasher genre films it helped to create. Halloween II, directed by newcomer Rick Rosenthal, effectively launches the Halloween franchise. Join hosts Joe and Pace as they take a deep dive into the nature of community, goodness, and what is evil, anyway? Find out all of this and more in episode 4 of Horror Nerds at Church!

Support us on Patreon! Buy some merch! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. If you would like to submit your own real life church horror story for a future minisode, follow this link (https://bit.ly/HNACMinisodes) or email us at horrornerdsatchurch@gmail.com And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Apr 01, 202158:02
Halloween 1978 Remastered!

Halloween 1978 Remastered!

We're rereleasing our Halloween episodes in preparation for Halloween Ends. To listen to the rest of season one or the uncut version of this episode, go to Patreon.com/HorrorNerdsAtChurch.

John Carpenter’s classic film Halloween kicked off the golden age of slasher films and introduced audiences to the Shape, evil personified in the person of Michael Myers. Join hosts Joe and Pace as they take a deep dive into the nature of evil, theodicy, whether or not the final girl can be seen as an allegory for Mary the Mother of God, and the importance of community. Also, why does Annie do her laundry in the dark? Find out all of this and more in episode 3 of Horror Nerds at Church!

Content Warnings: Discussion of animal cruelty and mental health as depicted in the film, discussion of the lifelong effects of trauma

Support us on Patreon! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for all the latest updates about upcoming films, news, and other announcements. And don’t forget to comment, rate, and subscribe to us on your favorite podcast provider!

Mar 25, 202159:17