A Time to Build

In today's world, congregations and clergy from a wide range of denominations are asking themselves how to assure the sexual health of their faith communities. This guidebook covers all of the building blocks of a sexually healthy faith community. It addresses the characteristics of a sexually healthy religious professional, ideas for worship and preaching on sexuality issues, techniques for pastoral care with individuals and couples, sexuality education for children, youth, and adults in the congregation, strategies for being a welcoming and affirming congregation, includes policies and procedures on preventing sexual abuse and sexual harassment, and opportunities for social action and involvement. Every section includes book lists, organizations, and web sites for further information.

Table of Contents

• Acknowledgements
• Introduction
• Religion and Sexuality
• How to Use This Guide
• The Building Blocks
• Sexually Healthy Religious Professionals
• Worship and Preaching
• Pastoral Care
• Education for Youth
• Adult Education
• Welcoming and Affirming Congregations
• Safe Congregations
• Social Action
• Resources for more information

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