Resources
You may be looking for more information about topics raised in this website. Here are some places to begin. Some are free downloads, while others you will need to purchase. You may want to encourage your church to purchase some of these resources for your church library.
How to understand Biblical references
Homosexuality and the Bible, 1979, Walter Wink
Includes background information on what the bible says about homosexuality. Read or download this booklet free online or purchase a print copy for $1.
For education and dialogue...
And God Loves Each One, 2004.
Dios nos ama por igual, 2006. Ann Thompson Cook
A faith-affirming view of the whole spectrum of sexual orientation; accurate information balanced by glimpses of real people. Dios nos ama is an enculturated version for Spanish-speaking families.
For dialogue and education about the church and gender differences
Made in God's Image, 2003. Ann Thompson Cook
Accurate information about transgender and intersex experience; photos and stories of real people’s lives; an accessible introduction to a complex subject.
A Time to Seek: Study Guide on Sexual and Gender Diversity, 2006. Timothy Palmer and Rev. Debra W. Haffner.
Offers a concise review of current sociological, public health and scientific data, and considers key Scriptural passages in light of contemporary understandings of sexual and gender diversity. Encourages exploration of sexual and gender diversity issues from a multi-faith perspective. Download free online or order a print copy.
For information about teens
Faith Matters: Teenagers, Religion, and Sexuality, 2003.
Steve Clapp, Kristen Leverton Helbert, and Angela Zizak
What teens tell us about sexuality and religion. Reveals the results of Christian Community’s national study of 5,819 teenagers representing a broad range of religious traditions, ethnic backgrounds, economic levels, and geographic locations.
Fact Sheet on LGBTQ Youth, Advocates for Youth
How to talk with children
All God’s Children: Teaching Children about Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, 2009. Melany Burrill
A guide to open and caring conversations with young children about gender and sexual orientation. Addresses concerns and questions. Learn to model openness, respect, and the affirming belief that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender difference, is a beloved child of God.
Reasons for churches to be inclusive
Taking a New Look: Why Congregations Need LGBT Members, 2008.
This book offers 10 focused reasons why congregations need LGBT members and endeavors to speak to some of the fears church leaders have of greater openness to LGBT people.
What United Methodists are saying
Read the RMN Blog to find out what United Methodists are saying about full inclusion.
How to become a Reconciling Congregation
Learn about the Reconciling Ministries Network and how to work toward becoming a Reconciling Congregation.
How to sign up as a Reconciling United Methodist
Be counted as someone who stands for full inclusion in the United Methodist Church and get connected with others who are working toward inclusiveness.
How to participate in the “Believe Out Loud” campaign in your area
Believe Out Loud is a grassroots movement to help the United Methodist church fulfill our gospel mandate to love all people by moving towards full inclusion of all people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
