These are a few books we recommend to those who want to know more about lesbian and
gay Christians and the church. These books are highly recommend for those seeking to
develop or deepening their commitment to Open & Affirming ministry.Bible Study
Resources
- Claiming the Promise: An Ecumenical Welcoming Bible Study Resource on
Homosexuality, Mary Jo Osterman. Reconciling Congregations Program, 1997.
An
in depth study program created by reconciling programs from several denominations.
Provides an affirming perspective on Biblical issues. Excellent for a church Sunday School
or Bible Study group. To purchase, contact GLAD. More information.
- Listening to the Spirit: A Handbook for Discernment
Presents
a process of discernment that helps to listen to the Holy Spirit for guidance as we
consider the question "What is the gospel message to our church as we relate to gay
and lesbian Christians?" This question is addressed through a process that will help
Christians approach the issues thoughtfully, theologically, and prayerfully. This resource
presents no set answers or preconceived outcomes. Available from Christian Board of Publication (you'll
have to search for "Listening to the Spirit").
- What the Bible Really Says About Homosexuality, Daniel A. Helminiak,
Ph.D. 1994.
An in depth study of Romans, placing the scripture deep within its cultural
and Biblical contexts.
Click here to purchase from Amazon.com
or Barnes & Noble
Entering Dialog
- Congregations Talking about Homosexuality, Beth Ann Gaede (ed.). 1998.
From
the Alban Institute, an excellent resource for those working to start a dialog within
their congregations. Includes stories of congregational experiences, tips for getting
started, and guidelines to keep the dialog constructive.
Click here to purchase from Amazon.com
or Barnes & Noble
(see also: Listening to the Spirit)
The Church and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Christians
- Our Selves, Our Souls & Bodies, Charles Hefling (ed.). 1996.
A
collection of essays and reflections from many perspectives, including family, scripture,
and theology, but always with a personal, thoughtful touch. Written from the Episcopalian
perspective but an excellent book for all Christians.
Click here to purchase from Amazon.com
or Barnes & Noble
- Homosexuality and Christian Community, Choon-Leong Seow (ed.). 1996.
Written
by faculty from the Princeton Theological Seminary, and thus a bit more academic, but an
excellent set of essays on scripture, theology, and faithful Christian practice. Includes
an excellent chapter entitled How to Discuss Moral Issues Surrounding Homosexuality
When You Know You Are Right.
Click here to purchase from Amazon.com
or Barnes & Noble
- Homosexuality and Christian Faith, Walter Wink (ed.). 1999.
A
collection of reflections on the Bible, faith, and personal experience. An excellent
all-round resource.
Click here to purchase from Amazon.com
or Barnes & Noble
- Inclusion: Making Room for Grace, Eric H.F. Law. 2000.
Not specifically about lesbian and gay issues,
covers the Biblical, theological and practical challenges for the church as we work to
include all in our church communities.
Click here to purchase from Amazon.com
or Barnes & Noble
Gay and Christian
- Reconciling Journey: A Devotional Workbook for Lesbian and Gay Christians, Pepper,
Michal Anne. 2003.
A workbook for lesbian and gay Christians who have come to a crossroad in their
journey: those who have renounced Christianity but would like to go home, those who have
disavowed their sexual orientation but would like to come out, and those who are both out
and at home but have lingering questions.
Click here the purchase from Pilgrim
Press
Youth
- Coming Out Young and Faithful, Tigert,
Leanne Mccall and Brown, Timothy (eds.). 2001.
A collection of stories from gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning teens
describing their church experiences.
Click here the purchase from Pilgrim
Press
- Lesbian and Gay Youth: Care and Counseling, Ryan, Caitlin C. and
Futterman, Donna. 1998.
A hands-on guide for providing health and mental health care to lesbian and gay youth
and young adults providing specific guidelines for care and for approaching such sensitive
topics as sexual behavior, substance abuse, and suicide. Also includes an extensive
discussion of the social and health effects of stigmatized identity in the context of
adolescent development.
Click here to purchase from Columbia
University Press
Purchases made through the Amazon and Barnes & Noble links will
support GLAD Alliance.
Claiming the Promise
Explores biblical authority and biblical interpretation.
Examines biblical references to same-sex conduct in light of the broader
biblical message which affirms that we are children or heirs of the Promise.
Discusses "gracious hospitality," "gift-ed sexuality"
and "supportive spirituality."
Tackles hard questions of "right relationship," lust / love,
and sexual responsibility.
Calls us all to live out the Promise as reconciling disciples.
Claiming the Promise is published by
Reconciling Congregation Program (United Methodist)
In Cooperation with
Affirmation: United Methodists for LG/Bi Concerns
Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists (American
Baptist)
Dignity (Roman Catholic)
Integrity (Episcopalian)
More Light Churches Network (Presbyterian USA)
Open and Affirming Program of the United Church Coalition for L/G
Concerns (United Church of Christ)
Open & Affirming Program of the GLAD Alliance (Disciples of
Christ)
Reconciled in Christ Program of Lutherns Concerned (ELCA)
Supportive Congregations Network of the Brethren/Mennonite
Council
Copies of Claiming the Promise are available from:
Claiming the Promise
GLAD Alliance Inc.
P.O. Box 44400
Indianapolis, IN 46244-0400
Study books are $5.95 each (10 or more are $4.50 each).
The Leader's Guide is $9.95 each.
Shipping and handling is $3.00.
Checks should be made payable to "GLAD Alliance."
All orders of 10 or more books will be shipped book rate unless other arrangements are
made. |