The genesis of this Lenten book choice came from several people approaching Fr. Tom and Rev. Shelly about issues around homosexuality and the church. These parishioners expressed sentiments like, "My brother is sending me all this information from Focus on the Family and I don't know how to answer him...are there other ways to think about the Bible?" and "I grew up in a church that taught one thing about gay people, but I know that they taught me other things that I no longer believe...but how can I talk about this? Have other people thought of ways to talk about this issue that are not what I grew up with?" and "Well, I'm not comfortable with homosexuality. But I don't want to be one of those old people who can't change their mind!"
We have gotten off to a great start. Last Sunday, 78 people came together in the parish hall to learn more about The Episcopal Church, questions about homosexuality, and each other. That is an amazing testament to our community, our fellowship, and our willingness to learn.
For those people who are interested and did not receive the handouts last week, the glossary can be found here.
The research study on Welcoming Congregations can be downloaded here.
Soon I will be posting a summary of last Sunday's work and conversational norms. Stay tuned!!!
