Transgenderism: A Question of Identity

by Francis Etheredge

​We live in difficult times as there are enormous advantages to the internet and, at the same time, profound problems with its use. Is it a distorting mirror or is a true reflection of who we are? On the one hand world class scholarship, news, philosophy and documents of the Catholic Church are available as we type and touch a button. And, indeed, we are encouraged to be ‘media literate’, critical, thoughtful, capable, not just of debate but of seeking the truth. On the other hand, however, if a person is vulnerable owing to his or her time of life, sufferings, just beginning to read and to think, but not really grounded in philosophy, formed in a faith-community, or generally aware of what kind of ideas are abroad, their sources and their purpose, then the wrong keys can be jammed into the questions about “who and what I am”.

This book, then, begins with a survey of some of the difficulties of our time, ranging from how we can lose a connection with each other, can isolate and “stay in”, die alone, or commit suicide. There are many cross-currents in our society, most of which are like tidal waves, involving so many types of suffering: the tragic statistics of marital breakdown, runaway children, the chemicalization of our bodies through drugs, contraception, and the taking of human life through abortion, whether by pill or by operation. Thus for there to be one more suggestion that the answer to our disorientation about our sexuality is just another set of drugs or operations is all too easy to believe. And, as the book progresses, we see that there is amidst this maelstrom of difficulties a black hole which is dangerous, directing us into dark places. Thus, given the power of the long-term anti-population strategies, it is possible to be on the receiving end of those who, while claiming to help, are advancing enclosed groups, estranging us from others, using unusual words, making us look at a distorting mirror and believe that we are misshapen. In order, however, to help young people to see the good of man and woman, we have to look afresh at all that could cloud or clear our vision. Given the providence of God, there are many signs of the presence of the truth in our lives, our families, our culture so that, as Pope Francis says, there is a hope that will not disappoint – but we have to be willing to see that we need help and the help we need is the truth about ourselves, what exists, and the God who loved us into existence and has sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to save us and to bring us into His Church.

Unless, then, there is a restoration of our relationship to reality, to evidence, to truth and to God, there is little hope for the restoration of our relationships to each other. Let us, therefore, be willing to re-explore the fullness of human being and life that our Savior, Jesus Christ, seeks for all of us: “I come to give you life and life to the full” (Jn. 10: 10).

Paperback: $TBA| Kindle: $9.99

ARTICLES

Etheredge, Francis, “‘Woman’ and ‘Women in Sport,’ Profiles in Catholicism (February 14, 2025). Click here to read the article.

Etheredge, Francis, “We must fight gender ideology to preserve the concept of truth,” LifeSite News (October 25, 2024). Click here to read the review.

REVIEWS

Bill Taylor, “A Review” (March 14, 2025). Profiles in Catholicism. Click here to read the review.

Dr. Moira McQueen (March 17, 2025). The Canadian Catholic Bioethics Institute, CCBI News: Kidney Transplants; Xenotransplantation; Transgender Issues. Click here to read the review.

REVIEW BY L K MILLER

Francis Etheredge’s Transgenderism: A Question of Identity is a valiant and timely work, addressing one of the most unsettling and socially defining subjects of our time. With the characteristic depth, clarity, and compassionate concern that mark his writing, Etheredge confronts the confusion surrounding identity in a world increasingly adrift from the truths of biology, psychology, and morality. After decades-long broad societal endorsement of a misdefined understanding of human sexuality, it is unsurprising that even the fundamental categories of “man” and “woman” are now contested.

Recognizing that human beings are never psychologically static—either growing in virtue or sliding into further disorder—it becomes evident that transgenderism, i.e., gender confusion, is the next progression from disordered attraction on the dystopian slippery slope. In an age caught between the poles of codependent affirmation and reactionary condemnation, Etheredge invites us to pause, to pray, and to deeply reflect on the fundamental question of what it means to be human—loved, created, and conceived as male and female in the image and likeness of God.

Drawing on Scripture, the Catholic philosophical tradition, and the lived experiences of those questioning their gender identity, this book offers a sensitive, intellectually serious response. With his love rooted in fidelity to the Church and his intellect and will strengthened by years of dialogue, scholarship, and personal experience, Etheredge neither shirks from hard truths nor neglects the profound need for mercy and understanding.

Being such a man, this book is not a chastisement but rather a pilgrimage into the truth of personhood—an invitation to reengage the foundational questions: Who am I? and What is the purpose of my life? In doing so, Etheredge reminds us that our identity and reason for existence are not merely self-asserted projects but are both a gift given and a truth received from our Divine Creator. As our soul—i.e., our personhood—is the form and animator of our body, it is, together with the body, necessarily fixed as male or female at conception. 

To claim an identity at odds with one’s body may feel liberating in a disoriented age—but however sincerely held, it cannot make the unreal real. Just as one cannot become a carrot by painting the skin orange, dyeing the hair green, sitting in the soil, and calling oneself a carrot, neither can one become the opposite gender by change of appearance, choice of thought and imagination, or social assertion. The power of our intellectual capacity for abstract thinking and creativity, which is lacking in brute animals, must be ordered to objective truth—not divorced from it.

For readers seeking a thoughtful, prayerful, and tenderhearted guide through the complex terrain of transgender ideology, this work is a light in the cultural fog. Offering more than answers, it presents a path toward authentic self-understanding, communion with truth, and a deeper reverence for the dignity of the human person from God’s perspective.

Transgenderism: A Question of Identity is not merely a book—it is a witness, a work of integrity, and, ultimately, an uncompromising call to rediscover the beauty and understanding of how relationships are an integral part of our humanity.

— L K Miller, author, 10 Steps to Lasting Healing: True Psychology—for Catholics, and founder, Theology of the Soul Psychology Institute, www.theologyofthesoul.org

TESTIMONIALS

“In this book, Francis Etheredge offers more than an ethical and theological critique of transgenderism. He probes the deeper roots of gender ideology, which are spiritual as well as cultural. Transgenderism is a threat to human identity, and it is linked to other problems such as sexual immorality, marital failure, abortion and antinatalism. Drawing upon personal experiences, Etheridge writes with poetic insight and passion. It is fitting that such a book should end with the spiritual autobiography of the poet, James Sale.” – Robert Fastiggi, Ph.D. Professor of Dogmatic Theology, Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Detroit, Michigan
“In this complex and highly nuanced work, Francis Etheredge frames the various issues surrounding transgenderism in light of the search for identity. He lays out the various forces at work in this search and proposes solutions sensitive to the issues at hand, yet firm in the need to correspond to an objective rather than a subjective understanding of reality. He rightly insists that we can restore our relationships with each other only if we first reestablish our relationship with God and the Truth from which all else flows.” – Rev. Dennis J. Billy, C.Ss.R., The Robert F. Leavitt Distinguished Service Chair in Theology, St. Mary’s Seminary & University
“In this compelling work confronting the recent rise of transgender theory, Francis Etheredge asks the ultimate question of existence, who am I? With patience, understanding, and skill, he weaves a compendium of authorities to find the answer. He considers the whole person as God’s unique creation, a union of body and soul, formed at the moment of conception. He deepens the conversation with his own experience and colors our journey with not only prose, poetry, and prayer, but extensively footnoted research and serious reflection, resulting in a deep sense of goodness, beauty, and rightness. The uses of suffering and the palliative effect of pilgrimage consider ways to develop identity in relationship to others in a healthy, whole, and holy sense. Transgender surgeries, youth suicide, euthanasia, and abortion are honestly faced as our world denies human identity as a union of body and soul, cancelling and censoring those who protest. The vital role of marriage and family as part of God’s plan for human flourishing gives us a blueprint, for in the end, the most important relationship is with our Lord, Christ Jesus. Once this bond is effected, identity is no longer a question and the child’s sex from conception is celebrated. Travel with Francis Etheredge through these pages and consider the depths and heights of God’s love for each one of us: a journey I highly recommend!”Christine Sunderland, Anglo-Catholic Novelist, Advent 2024.
“Sensitive yet incisive, worldwide studies, brilliantly covering questions you may not have even asked!” – Dr. Ronda Chervin, Professor Emerita of Philosophy and author of numerous Catholic books

“Francis Etheredge brings to light insights surrounding questions of ‘identity’ related to being ‘male’ or ‘female.’ Heavily researched, this book will cause anyone to think more critically about its topic with its thought-provoking content. Those who have questions concerning their identity primarily seek answers through social media outlets, chat rooms, and the mainstream media. In contrast, Etheredge’s book addresses practical and philosophical questions pertinent to identity that those who have undergone procedures in the hopes of changing their male or female identities, later lament they were not made aware of. The alarming evidence that has emerged pertaining to the side effects of puberty blockers on bone density and fertility, alone, is enough to make one wonder why such counter-productive, detrimental, and even sometimes deadly ‘treatments’ are allowed to continue. Etheredge additionally discusses the global confusion surrounding ‘identity’ which has arisen in direct relation to the moral decay of cultures; the decline in the ‘traditional’ family; diminishing religious affiliation and church attendance; increased feelings of loneliness and isolation; increased suicide; and anti-life governmental strategies. Citing some of Etheredge’s words from his book, in my own acknowledgement of his important facts and insights contained within, he sheds “a light here and a light there … a truth here and a truth there” such that “they come together … each lighting the other” in educating and informing the reader.” – Kimberly Bruce, Author of The Gender Link to the Human Soul, Writer, Speaker, M.A. Theology

“In Transgenderism: A Question of Identity, Francis Etheredge weaves a tapestry of faith, reason, and human experience to unravel the complexities of gender ideology. With a Catholic lens, he argues that transgenderism, driven by radical individualism, severs the soul body unity, leading to personal and societal harm. Through poignant narratives, like Kiki Latimer’s conversion and James Sale’s poetic reflections, the book illuminates the perils of affirming delusion over truth. Etheredge critiques the medicalization of gender dysphoria (puberty blockers and surgeries) as profit driven mutilation, citing rising de-transitioner voices and evidence of psychological malaise. He champions a return to objective reality: humans are male or female, created in God’s image, thriving through relationships, not isolation. This is a clarion call for de-transition, urging society to guide youth with time, love, and truth, not irreversible interventions. Transgenderism: A Question of Identity shows youth deserve truth; male or female, we’re God’s design. De-transition offers healing, not mutilation. Let’s give kids time, love, & reality, not irreversible surgeries.” – Dr. Natassia Fortemps

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mr. Francis Etheredge is married with eight children, plus three in heaven.

Francis is currently a freelance writer and speaker and his “Posts” on LinkedIn can be viewed here. Poetry; short articles; autobiographical blog; excerpts from books; and “Philosophize: A Ten Minute Write.”

For a list of all of Francis’ books published by En Route Books and Media, click here.

See Francis’ other books, too, entitled Scripture: A Unique WordFrom Truth and truth: Volume I-Faithful ReasonFrom Truth and truth: Volume II: Faith and Reason in DialogueFrom Truth and truth: Volume III: Faith is Married Reason.

He has earned a BA Div (Hons), MA in Catholic Theology, PGC in Biblical Studies, PGC in Higher Education, and an MA in Marriage and Family (Distinction).

Enjoy these additional articles by Francis Etheredge:

OTHER PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

Currents of Water: A Widow’s Walk with Jesus and Mary

Currents of Water: A Widow’s Walk with Jesus and Mary

Currents of Water: A Widow's Walk with Jesus and Mary by Wendy Forest Currents of Water is a deeply personal and spiritual reflection on grief, faith, and healing. Following her husband's death, the author embarks on a transformative journey, rediscovering her...

read more
Going Solo? Encouraging Single Catholics by Anne Stokes

Going Solo? Encouraging Single Catholics by Anne Stokes

Going Solo: Encouraging Single Catholics by Anne Stokes In a world that often equates fulfillment with marriage and family, Going Solo: Encouraging Single Catholics offers a refreshing and faith-centered perspective on the joys, challenges, and spiritual purpose of...

read more
The Three Ways: Catholic Spiritual Journey

The Three Ways: Catholic Spiritual Journey

The Three Ways: Catholic Spiritual Journey by Julie McPhillips, OCDS Today, you are invited exactly where you are to consider that your life is on a spiritual journey Home to God. Each is God’s planned creation, and Jesus is “The Way” to our final destination—Eternal...

read more
Handbook for Catholic Religious by Fr. Bevil Bramwell, OMI

Handbook for Catholic Religious by Fr. Bevil Bramwell, OMI

Handbook for Catholic Religious by Fr. Bevil Bramwell, OMI Reflecting on the theology of the presence of Christ in the world, particularly from the point of view of the aesthetics of religious life as understood from the writings of Hans Urs von Balthasar, John Paul...

read more
Human Sexuality

Human Sexuality

Human Sexuality: Precious Gift and Perilous Challenge with Particular Reference to the Sexual Abuse Scandal in the Church by Fr. Dominic Anaeto We live in an age when our sexuality speaks loudly and clamors for attention, so it is good that celibate men and women, and...

read more
Screen Addiction: Why You Can’t Put that Phone Down

Screen Addiction: Why You Can’t Put that Phone Down

Screen Addiction: Why You Can't Put That Phone Down by Sister Marysia Weber, RSM Have you ever had an irresistible urge to check your texts, social media posts or email updates when your cell phone rings, beeps or buzzes? Is the amount of time spent on your cell phone...

read more
Taming the Lion Within: 5 Steps from Anger to Peace

Taming the Lion Within: 5 Steps from Anger to Peace

Taming the Lion Within: 5 Steps from Anger to Peace by Dr. Ronda Chervin Five steps to help people overcome uncontrolled or over-reactive anger. Steps include admitting being angry person: identifying the anger: physical, psychological and spiritual perspectives about...

read more
Missionary Priests in the Homeland: Our Call to Receive

Missionary Priests in the Homeland: Our Call to Receive

Missionary Priests in the Homeland: Our Call to Receive by Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, and Bishop Richard Henning International priests have served the Roman Catholic Church in the United States since its inception. With congregations consisting largely of immigrants...

read more
Bereavement Miracles

Bereavement Miracles

Bereavement Miracles by Michael Frey The Bereavement Miracles program was designed to play a quintessential role in evangelizing the “spirit of  mission” to individuals who are suffering from the death of a loved one by relating eternal realities in a systematic...

read more
How to Flourish in a Fallen World

How to Flourish in a Fallen World

How to Flourish in a Fallen World by Dr. Donald DeMarco How to Flourish in a Fallen World, by Donald DeMarco, engages the reader in an understanding of our common human nature and the problems it faces in a culture that actively pursues, to put it in Saint John Paul...

read more
Feminine, Free, & Faithful

Feminine, Free, & Faithful

Feminine, Free and Faithful by Dr. Ronda Chervin Should women be feminine and forget about liberation? Or should they reject femininity as a euphemism for slavery? Women seeking fulfillment, says Chervin, aren’t faced with this either-or, but with the challenge to be...

read more
Eyewitnesses: Biblical Foundations in Christian Spirituality

Eyewitnesses: Biblical Foundations in Christian Spirituality

Eyewitnesses: Biblical Foundations in Christian Spirituality – Ed. by Fr. John Horn, S.J. St. Paul prays with ardent desire that “the eyes of our understanding would be enlightened, that we might know what is the hope of the risen Jesus’ calling, and what are the...

read more
Fun is Not Enough

Fun is Not Enough

Fun is Not Enough by Fr. Francis Canavan, SJ ​Fun Is Not Enough collects all the prophetic insights catholic eye readers loved, so that Canavan may inspire a new generation with his contributions to contemporary debates on religious and political liberty, the dignity...

read more