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A multifaceted sourcebook telling the powerful story of reconciliation, celebration and struggle for LGBTQI inclusion across the American religious landscape.
"No matter what stage in the process of change, religious belief is unveiled in all its dynamism in this book.... Wrestling with issues and struggling for better understanding of one's fellow human beings is at the center of every religion, no matter how old or new, narrow or expansive, Western or Eastern, that religion is. The struggle itself is a sign of life in these religious endeavors, and with life there is hope."
—from the Foreword by Bishop Gene Robinson
We are at a critical turning point in American religious and political life over LGBTQI inclusion. How each spiritual community approaches the question will profoundly impact the American political and social climate of the future. This accessible resource explores thirteen faith traditions that wrestle with LGBTQI inclusion, documenting the challenges and transformation of American religion.
Faith Traditions Covered: The Black Church • Buddhism • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon) • The Episcopal Church • First Nations (Native American) • Hinduism • Judaism • The Lutheran Church • Islam • The Presbyterian Church • Protestant Evangelical Traditions • The Roman Catholic Church • Unitarian Universalism
"A timely exploration of the grappling all faith communities must engage in to survive and thrive in modern pluralistic America.... Powerfully outline[s] the challenges and opportunities ahead."
—Rick Davis, western regional director, Lambda Legal
"A wonderful compendium of resources.... Religion and LGBTQI rights are not at odds with one another and this book helps to show that."
—Rabbi Denise L. Eger, president, Central Conference of American Rabbis; founding president, Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Interfaith Clergy Association
“Honest, compelling and hopeful faith leaders ... share their views on the issues that matter most. If we will hear them and respond to the divine spirit of love together, the struggle will be well worth it.”
—The Rev. Peter Wallace, Day1, radio host; author, The Passionate Jesus: What We Can Learn from Jesus about Love, Fear, Grief, Joy and Living Authentically
“A strong addition to the fields of theology, religion and LGBTQI studies.... Of particular use and interest to those who regularly work in multifaith environments such as chaplains and pastoral counselors.... Clergy of all faith traditions will also find this a valuable resource.”
—Rabbi Stephen B. Roberts, MBA, BCC, editor, Professional Spiritual and Pastoral Care: A Practical Clergy and Chaplain's Handbook
“An invaluable resource. This richly textured treasury will enlighten your mind, expand your heart and show you ways to engage more fully with the uniqueness of each person and the complexity of each religious tradition.”
—Diane M. Millis, PhD, author, Deepening Engagement: Essential Wisdom for Listening and Leading with Purpose, Meaning and Joy
A Brief Overview of LGBTQI Terms
Foreword
Bishop Gene Robinson
Introduction
Mychal Copeland, MTS, and D'vorah Rose, BCC
The Black Church
Minister Rob Newells
Buddhism
Acharya Rita M. Gross, PhD
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon)
John Gustav-Wrathall
The Episcopal Church
Rev. Dr. Cameron Partridge
First Nations (Native American)
Alex Wilson, EdD
Hinduism
Ruth Vanita, PhD
Islam
Shehnaz Haqqani with Laury Silvers, El-Farouk Khaki, and Troy Jackson
Judaism
Rabbi Jane Rachel Litman
The Lutheran Church
Beth Ann Doerring
The Presbyterian Church
Marvin M. Ellison, PhD, and Sylvia Thorson-Smith, MS
Protestant Evangelical Traditions
Ryan Bell, DMin
The Roman Catholic Church
Sister Jeannine Gramick, SL
Unitarian Universalism
Annette S. Marquis
Conclusion
Mychal Copeland, MTS, and D’vorah Rose, BCC
Afterword
Ani Zonneveld, founder and president, Muslims for Progressive Values
Acknowledgments
Notes