Justice for Gays and Lesbians

Dr. McCan writes with clarity, compassion, and courage as he calls for full acceptance of lesbians and gays in church and society.  He explains the crisis and challenge in the Episcopal Church, the larger Anglican Communion and in other Protestant denominations.  The author’s compelling case supports the thesis that for most persons homosexuality is a condition and not a choice.  He suggests, therefore, that we accept persons as they are created by God and celebrate this diversity.

Inclusion will succeed only if under-girded by foundational doctrines of the Christian faith.  The reader is invited to a fresh analysis of scriptural references to homosexuality, to reclaim the love ethic of Jesus, and to explore the creating, loving nature of God who gives new insights.  Further, the reader will discover guideposts for making ethical decisions as a Christian in the modern world.

One chapter hears the testimony of homosexual persons.  Another discusses compassionate pastoral care for gays, lesbians, and their families.  Justice for people long discriminated against is the topic of another.  Another examines those qualities that make a Christian marriage and suggests that both justice and compassion support marriage for same-gender couples.  A final chapter draws lessons from the current crisis and challenges the church in its 21st century mission of making the world safe for diversity.