A Question of Truth: Christianity and Homosexuality
Gareth Moore; Continuum (New York, 2003).
Review by: Joshua J. Spencer

The author, Gareth Moore, is a Dominican priest of the English Province. He has lectured in theology and philosophy in Oxford, and has also written The Body in Context (Continuum, 2001). The motto of his religious order is “truth,” and the author reminds us that his order did not contribute. This book, written from a Roman Catholic perspective, discusses the role of gay and lesbian members that are Christians, especially in regards to Catholic doctrine.

The text begins with the discussion of how the Church has dealt with the “gay issue.” He states that gay and lesbian Catholics (and other Christians) have received the response similar to that of another group in the past: feminists, whom the orthodoxy ignored initially instead of listening or speaking to its members and supporters. Then, the reader is introduced to the official statements from the Vatican on the status of gay and lesbians within the Church. One such document is the Homosexual Persons (1986) or HP for short. The English translation, being known as the Homosexual Persons, This official statement offers little comfort to those it is responding to. It states that “materialism” (10) influences homosexual persons, and their supporters for equality and recognition within the Church. Essentially, this decree suggests that same-sex attraction oriented men and women are actually the result of the need for money and social advancement. Furthermore, pro-gay supporters are also considered victims of such desires.

To elaborate, homosexual persons are told to remain celibate, and that the lack of being able to be physically intimate with another person of the same gender is a necessary evil. If unable to find true happiness, gay and lesbian individuals are encouraged to “suffer with Christ at the cross” (HP).

The author interjects at this point, and encourages the reader to consider the implications this decree states upon homosexuals in the Church. Guilt and sorrow may be felt from Catholics who are gay or lesbian as a result of the Vatican’s response, and internalized homophobia may continue within the individual who has a sincere devotion to the teachings of the RCC, especially if he or she is involved in a loving same-sex relationship.
However, some light is presented at the end of the proverbial tunnel. Biblical interpretation enters into the debate. The author reminds us that the Bible does not state that homosexuals are sinful or misguided. Rather, for those looking for arguments that are anti-gay or anti-lesbian, will not find support within Scripture. He also brings to the attention that nowhere in the natural order of life does one find anti-homosexual arguments. Thus, Scripture and Natural Law cannot be used to persecute and belittle or condemn gay and lesbian Christians.

Overall, this Catholic venture into the gay debate is written well. It could be interpreted as neutral on the issue, but certain phrases seem to be written for more conservative readers. The best statement in the text is mentioned in the introduction and conclusion: gay and lesbians may not be condemned based on Scripture or Natural Law. Early in the book, the author states how gay and lesbians are special and blessed to God. Indeed, he states that homosexuals have a special role and personal relationship with God.

Criticism, however, must be asserted. Many gay and lesbians may cringe in disgust when the author uses phrases like “homosexual behaviors” and “homosexual practices” scattered throughout the book, as it suggests an anti-gay interpretation and words used to justify dehumanizing another. Perhaps this is because the author does not desire to alienate some members within the Church. If this book is regarded in its complete context, then the reader will see a relatively neutral, but loving stance on the issue of same-sex orientation persons. Given that Mr. Moore provides that Scripture or Natural Law do not condemn us, and that the Church should love everyone, homosexual or heterosexual. As a result, this is an interesting and thought-provoking book in the continued debate on homosexual rights and place in the Church and Christianity itself.