Religious Institute News

Religious Institute releases A Time to Seek: A Guide to Sexual and Gender Diversity.

RELIGIOUS INSTITUTE PUBLISHES FIRST GUIDE FOR FAITH COMMUNITIES

GRAPPLING WITH ISSUES OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER IDENTITY

WESTPORT, CT, Sept. 18, 2007 – As religious denominations continue to struggle with issues related to sexuality, a new resource is available to help clergy and congregants explore the scientific, social and religious perspectives that underlie the debates. 

The Religious Institute on Sexual Morality, Justice, and Healing today announced the publication of A Time to Seek: Study Guide on Sexual and Gender Diversity, the first multifaith guide to address sexual orientation and gender identity issues.  The study guide 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.

“Debates over marriage equality and the ordination of lesbian, gay and transgender clergy make headlines, but these issues are much more complex than news reports can convey,” said the Rev. Debra W. Haffner, director of the Religious Institute.  “A Time to Seek is intended to stand apart from the controversy, clarify the issues, and prepare people of faith with the information they need to engage thoughtfully and prayerfully in these discussions.”

A Time to Seek summarizes the scientific research into the origins of sexual orientation and gender identity, and provides a glossary of relevant terminology.  The study guide provides data on the prevalence of sexual and gender diversity, demographics on same-sex couples and their families, and the status of marriage equality in the U.S.  It also explores the psychological and social challenges faced by LGBT persons, particularly youth, and their families.

A Time to Seek is designed for individual or group study, with discussion questions aimed at specific religious concerns, such as the interpretation of Scripture, the role of LGBT persons in faith communities, and the recognition of same-sex unions.  An extensive resource guide is provided to encourage further exploration of sexual and gender diversity issues from a multifaith perspective. 

 “Beyond the national debates, untold numbers of private conversations are taking place in churches, synagogues, mosques and temples across the country,” said Rev. Haffner.  “Parents are seeking guidance from their clergy when their children come out.  Transgender people in transition are seeking spiritual support in their journeys.  Same-sex couples are seeking blessings for their relationships and welcoming homes where their families can worship.  We hope this study guide will help faith communities meet the diverse needs of their congregations.”  

A Time to Seek was co-authored by Rev. Haffner and Timothy Palmer, director of research and communications for the Religious Institute.  It is available for download from the Religious Institute’s web site, www.religiousinstitute.org.  Single copies of the printed publication are available free of charge for a limited time; email requests may be sent to kott@religiousinstitute.org.  Additional printed copies are available for $12.95 each (bulk rates available) from Lifequest Publications.  To order, call (419) 872-7448.

Publication of A Time to Seek follows the release in June of an Open Letter to Religious Leaders on Sexual and Gender Diversity, written by a coalition of national faith leaders and published by the Religious Institute.  The Open Letter challenges religious leaders to use the pulpit to address the complex realities of sexual and gender diversity, and to advocate in secular and faith-based contexts for justice and the full inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons.  (The Open Letter also is available online at www.religiousinstitute.org.)

The Religious Institute on Sexual Morality, Justice, and Healing is a multifaith organization dedicated to advocating for sexual health, education and justice in faith communities and society. Over 2,600 religious leaders from more than 40 faith traditions endorse its Religious Declaration on Sexual Morality, Justice, and Healing.

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