responding to gay Christians in the church VanderWal-Gritter, Wendy 1970- creator text bibliography miu Grand Rapids, MI Brazos Press. c2014 2014 monographic eng

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281 p ; 23 cm. Committed Christians may respond differently to gay and lesbian Christians. How can we engage those with whom we might disagree and navigate our journey together in a way that nurtures unity, hospitality, humility, and justice? Through her extensive experience in ministering to gay and lesbian Christians, Wendy VanderWal-Gritter has come to believe we need a new paradigm for how the church engages those in the sexual minority. She encourages generous spaciousness, a hope-filled, relational way forward for those in turmoil regarding a response to gay and lesbian Christians. This book offers a framework for discussing diversity in a gracious way, showing that the church can be a place that welcomes a variety of perspectives on the complex matter of human sexuality. It also offers practical advice for implementing generous spaciousness in churches and organizations. Introduction: An unpredictable adventure -- Reevaluating evangelical ex-gay ministry -- Of doubt, tension, and anxiety -- The power of stories -- A complex spectrum : views of same-sex sexuality -- Coming-out and the church -- The journey of discipleship -- Understanding holistic sexuality -- Our image of God -- The role of scripture -- The challenge of interpretation -- A disputable matter? -- Engaging the church -- A word for pastors and leaders -- A word to gay Christians -- A word to would-be gay advocates in the church -- Concluding thoughts: Living into incarnational postures. Wendy VanderWal-Gritter. Includes bibliographical references (pages 275-281) and index. Homosexuality Religious aspects Christianity Church work with gays BR115.H6 V36 2014 261.8/35766 9781587433559 (pbk.) 1587433559 (pbk.) 2013049066 DLC 140304 20160802173246.0 861208919 eng