Catholic Pastoral Ministry Holds Drag Show Event For LGBTQ Fundraiser In Switzerland
A Catholic pastoral ministry which is connected to the Diocese of St. Gallen in Switzerland has become the centre of controversy after collaborating on a drag performance and discussion event earlier this month.
The event which is, titled “Deep Drag – Memory and Hope,” was held on the 18th of September 2026 at the Grabenhalle in St. Gallen. The event featured drag performers like Lupa Nova and Amélie Putain, with the program combining performances, interviews and conversations about identity, memory, hope and as well as spirituality.
Ann-Katrin Gässlein (Gasslein), a theologian known with working with Katholisch St.Gallen, helped in organising and moderation of the event. A local reporter stated that, the organizers of the event presented the program as an opportunity to connect drag art with social, cultural and spiritual questions.
The event was totally free to attend, but encourages donations for HAVEN99, a project that provides shared accommodation for young adults who identify as transgender, non-binary or are questioning their gender identity.
As the event criticism continues to spread, Gässlein said Bishop Beat Grögli had been informed about the event as part of the diocese’s internal communication. She also indicated that the program had been planned for several months before it finally took place. The diocese reportedly described the drag format as a means of encouraging conversation rather than as a matter of Catholic faith.
The event has since attracted attention from Catholic commentators because of the involvement of church pastoral workers and its connection of drag performance with spiritual and religious discussion.
