A collection of personal stories, articles, resources etc. about bisexual identity, experience, and Christian faith, developed with the help of BAMN!, the bisexual network within the United Church of Christ.

Have you been looking for an AIDS curriculum that deals forthrightly with the many complex issues that must be addressed to save lives? Look no further!

Affirming Persons—Saving Lives responds to the real concerns of real people facing the dangers of HIV transmission and AIDS. Designed for multi-cultural Christian education settings, this groundbreaking resource also can be adapted for use by health and human service institutions, schools, health department and community based organizations.

In age-appropriate, non-judgmental language, Affirming Persons-Saving Lives nurtures self-esteem and integrates these components for effective AIDS education:

• Christian values, Bible study, theological reflection and prayer;
• Complete, factual HIV transmission and prevention information;
• Skills for ethical decision-making and decision-keeping;
• Skills for effectively refusing unwanted invitations to sexual intercourse and drug use;
• Skills for HIV transmission risk assessment;
• Mission education for AIDS ministry.

Affirming Persons—Saving Lives was created by the HIV/AIDS Ministry Program of the United Church Board for Homeland Ministries. Experienced AIDS educators, Cynthia A. Bouman and the Rev. Bill Johnson, Ed.D., are the co-authors. The curriculum is available for just the cost of shipping ($12).

To learn more about this curriculum, visit http://www.ucc.org/health/hivaids/apsl/.

A packet of materials including theological background, five sample services, liturgical resources, and “Personal Witnesses” by those who have been part of such services.

An embossed certificate to be presented to a couple at their covenant service. Comes with envelope. (6½" high by 5" wide)

by Geoffrey Duncan

An exceptional collection of worship and liturgical resources inclusive of and sensitive to the needs of the LGBT community.

A packet of materials including theological background, five sample services, liturgical resources, and “Personal Witnesses” by those who have been part of such services.

An embossed certificate to be presented to a couple at their covenant service. Comes with envelope. (6½" high by 5" wide)

Called to Equality: Considering Marriage Equality is a resource in the Just and Loving Relationships Series. It includes two 1-hour sessions created to encourage ONA settings and lgbt-supportive communities to live into God's call for justice in the public sphere. It is free to download or $15.95 for a bound copy from The Coalition office. To download a PDF of this resource, please click here.

A resource designed for Christian clergy meeting with same-gender couples prior to a blessing or marriage ceremony. This collection includes reflections of the meaning of covenantal relationship, unique issues which arise when working with same-gender couples, questions to explore with couples, and more. Contributors include the Rev. Yvette Flunder, Dr. Scott Haldeman, and the Rev. Leanne Tigert.

Freedom to Marry has a number of useful resources on its website.  

In particular, the Freedom to Marry resource kit has lots of ideas about things you can do to help educate and motivate folks in your city or state to support and work for an end to discrimination in marriage. It was developed for Freedom to Marry day, but you can use these ideas every day. To download a PDF of The Freedom to Marry Resource Kit, please click here.

An in depth Christian education study resource on marriage, including marriage equality for same gender loving couples.

To download a PDF of the God is Still Speaking About Marriage resource, please click here.

This curriculum is designed as a study for youth groups and campus ministries about same-gender marriage. It can be done in one long session, or two shorter sessions.

Marvin M. Ellison

This critical book is written by a gay man and progressive Christian ethicist who places justice making at the heart of contemporary spirituality. Hardcover.

Eight same-gender couples’ joyful, historic, legal marriages in faith communities in Massachusetts. At least one person in each couple is a member of the UCC. The resource includes photos of the couples and their reflections on marriage, with additional comments by officiants, family and friends.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT "TYING THE KNOT" EXCLUSIVELY FOR UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST CHURCHES/SETTINGS
Click here for additional information.

A collection of personal stories, articles, resources etc. about bisexual identity, experience, and Christian faith, developed with the help of BAMN!, the bisexual network within the United Church of Christ.

A packet of materials including theological background, five sample services, liturgical resources, and “Personal Witnesses” by those who have been part of such services.

An embossed certificate to be presented to a couple at their covenant service. Comes with envelope. (6½" high by 5" wide)

Called to Equality: Considering Marriage Equality is a resource in the Just and Loving Relationships Series. It includes two 1-hour sessions created to encourage ONA settings and lgbt-supportive communities to live into God's call for justice in the public sphere. It is free to download or $15.95 for a bound copy from The Coalition office. To download a PDF of this resource, please click here.

Part of the QUEER ACTION series, edited by Michael Bronski. An inspirational and effective guide to grassroots LGBT organizing.

Come Out and Win will educate, engage, and agitate LGBT and straight activists to become involved in the political movement to win full equality under the law and sexual/gender freedom. Spurring a new generation of activists to positive social action, it not only tells the history of gay liberation but, crucially, offers guidance and practical advice for building organizations and taking concrete action to eradicate homophobia.

From starting a gay-straight alliance in your high school to the most effective way to lobby your state representative face-to-face, Come Out and Win explains how to organize and become politically engaged in a clear and user-friendly manner. Other issues explored include youth organizing, marriage equality, legislative change, public relations, having a voice in the mainstream press, putting on a street demonstration, and political organizing from local to national levels. Grappling with the complexity of grassroots political interactions, Come Out and Win suggests ways for LGBT communities to form coalitions with women's organizations, communities of color, and faith communities.

A resource designed for Christian clergy meeting with same-gender couples prior to a blessing or marriage ceremony. This collection includes reflections of the meaning of covenantal relationship, unique issues which arise when working with same-gender couples, questions to explore with couples, and more. Contributors include the Rev. Yvette Flunder, Dr. Scott Haldeman, and the Rev. Leanne Tigert.

In Gay by God: How to be Lesbian or Gay and Christian, Rev. Michael S. Piazza updates his bestselling book, Holy Homosexuals: The Truth about Being Gay or Lesbian and Christian for a new generation struggling with shame, guilt, and fear as they come out to family and friends. The homo-hatred of the Religious Righthas driven so many beautifully gifted women and men into the arms of suicide, alcoholism, promiscuity and self-destruction. It is impossible to overstate the damage done in human lives when people are made to believe they cannot be children of the God who created them. If just one mother or father reads this book and is better able to accept her or his daughter or son, then this effort has been of value. Faith should not be a barrier between parents and their children.

REV. MICHAEL S. PIAZZA is a pastor, author and social justice activist. He is the founder and President of Hope for Peace & Justice, and serves as Dean and National Pastor of the Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, Texas. A graduate of Candler School of Theology at Emory University, Rev. Piazza has been the pastor of churches in Texas, Georgia, Oklahoma and Florida. The Advocate magazine named Rev. Piazza one of the most influential people in the gay and lesbian movement. He and his partner Bill have been together since 1980 and have two daughters.

Homosexuality is not a problem: heterosexism is, and heterosexism is often supported by religious statements and practices against sexual minorities. This book seeks to draw out strands in each major religion that are antidotal to such practices and attitudes.

The contributors to this volume, all of whom are authorities in their religious traditions, include:

• Ghazala Anwar (Islam)
• Kelly Brown Douglas (African American Christianity)
• Marvin M. Ellison (Protestant Christianity)
• Ann-Marie Hsiung (Taoism and Confucianism)
• Mary Hunt (Roman Catholicism)
• Yu-Chen Li (Buddhism)
• Daniel C. Maguire (Roman Catholicism)
• Judith Plaskow (Judaism)
• Anantanand Rambachan (Hinduism)

MARVIN M. ELLISON is Willard S. Bass Professor of Christian Ethics at Bangor Theological Seminary in Bangor, Maine. He is the author of Same-Sex Marriage? A Christian Ethical Analysis (2004).

JUDITH PLASKOW, a Jewish feminist theologian, is professor of religious studies at Manhattan College in New York City. She is co-founder of Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion and wrote the first full-length Jewish feminist theology, Standing Again in Sinai: Judaism from a Feminist Perspective (1990).

In response to the question, "Now that we're ONA, what do we do?" This seventy-five page publication offers ideas about outreach, education, and celebration from ONA settings around the country. Includes an extensive resource section.

A seven session study packet for use in local congregations. Prepared by the Open and Affirming Task Team of the Massachusetts Conference, UCC, and the UCC Coalition. Materials on sexual orientation, youth issues (video included), family and relationships, heterosexism/homophobia, scriptural interpretation, the ONA process in the local church, and more. This packet includes both the Bisexuality Pocket and the Transgender Pocket listed below.

This film depicts three UCC congregations going through the ONA study process. It includes a 72-page resource book. 55 minutes.

A response to frequent questions about the meaning of being “affirming,” the resource provides opportunity for seventeen lesbian, bisexual, and gay United Church of Christ members to speak for themselves about what it means to be affirmed by local churches.

If you (or others you know) have ever wondered if the Open and Affirming movement matters, if it makes any difference when it comes to sharing the good news of Christ or shaping the lives of individuals and faith communities, this is a must-read! More than fifty UCC folks share how ONA has blessed and challenged them and their settings in the UCC.

Growing a Community from the Outside In

Cheri Divono

This book chronicles a minister’s attempts to expand the membership of a rapidly shrinking congregation in a poor, inner city Toronto neighborhood. When members decided to evangelize among the marginalized and "queer" at their gate, church members are radically changed. It answers the question of how do we understand evangelism biblically and in a completely new way.

A Spirited, ecumenical collection of prayers, liturgies, blessings, music, essays, sermons, and more, produced by the Welcoming Church Movement (programs like “Open and Affirming” in various denominations). Includes a study guide and resource lists.

Karen P. Oliveto, Kelly D. Turney, and Traci C. West

First book in a new series– Holy Conversations – that addresses the often difficult to discuss topics in church as well as society.

Eight same-gender couples’ joyful, historic, legal marriages in faith communities in Massachusetts. At least one person in each couple is a member of the UCC. The resource includes photos of the couples and their reflections on marriage, with additional comments by officiants, family and friends.

Horace Griffin

This book provides a historical overview and critical analysis of the black church and its current engagement with lesbian and gay Christians, and shares ways in which black churches can learn to reach out and confront all types of oppression - not just race - in order to do the work of the black community.

Every clergy person counsels parishioners who are struggling with sexual issues. Every faith community knows that the sacred gift of sexuality can be abused or exploited: congregants experience domestic violence, adolescent pregnancy, sexual abuse, sexual harassment, homophobia, sexism, and other ways that people's sexuality has been broken. Many denominations have recognized the importance of sexuality education for teenagers and some have made a commitment to lifelong sexuality education, from kindergarten through the elderly years.

A "sexually healthy faith community" is committed to fostering spiritual, sexual, and emotional health among the congregation and providing a safe environment where sexuality issues are addressed with respect, mutuality, and openness. A sexually healthy faith community promotes the integration of sexuality and spirituality in worship, preaching, pastoral care, youth and adult religious education, and social action programs in the community. It makes a commitment to a sexual ethic that is not based on a double standard and understands that dealing with sexuality is an issue of spiritual wholeness. By addressing sexuality openly and holistically within the faith community, it models that sexuality and spirituality are inextricably connected.

The building blocks of a sexually healthy faith community are:

• Sexually healthy religious professionals
• Worship and Preaching
• Pastoral Care on Sexuality Issues
• Lifespan Sexuality Education
• Education for Youth
• Adult Education
• Welcoming and Affirming Congregations
• Safe Congregations
• Social Action

Personal stories, articles, resources, etc. about transgender identities, experiences, and Christian life.

Helminiak, a Roman Catholic priest, has done careful reading in current biblical scholarship about homosexuality. While cautioning against viewing biblical teaching as "the last word on sexual ethics," he stresses the need for accurate understanding of what the biblical "facts" are and concludes that "the Bible supplies no real basis for the condemnation of homosexuality." Using the studies of Yale historian John Boswell (Same-Sex Unions in Premodern Europe, LJ 7/94), New Testament seminary professor L. William Countryman, and others, Helminiak examines the story of Sodom (where the sin was inhospitality), Jude's decrying sex with angels, and five texts-Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13, Romans 1:27, I Corinthians 6:9, and I Timothy 1:10-all of which, he concludes, "are concerned with something other than homogenital activity itself." Highly recommended for all libraries.

A packet of materials including theological background, five sample services, liturgical resources, and “Personal Witnesses” by those who have been part of such services.

An embossed certificate to be presented to a couple at their covenant service. Comes with envelope. (6½" high by 5" wide)

Responding to individual or families who have sexual concerns can be one of the most difficult and awkward situations pastors face. This book provides clergy with the accurate and practical information they need when dealing with these matters. Carefully designed to be both a text for those in training for pastoral ministry, as well as a practical resource for those already engaged in the field, it addresses a variety of sexual and related issues as well as the mental health difficulties that may be experienced as a result of them. The book contains easy-to-locate information on sexual issues, case studies, and suggestions for pastoral assessments and responses.

ANDREW J. WEAVER is an ordained United Methodist minister and a clinical psychologist. He earned his M.Th. from Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University and his Ph.D. from The Wright Institute Graduate School of Theology. He is the associate publisher of Zion's Herald. He has co-authored 11 books.

JOHN D. PRESTON is professor of psychology at Alliant International University in Sacramento, California, and an active layman in The United Methodist Church. He earned his Psy.D. from Baylor University. 

CHARLENE HOSENFELD, is a Presbyterian laywoman who works as a staff psychologist at Hawaii State Hospital. She also has a private practice in Honolulu, in which she has worked extensively with patients who have sexual and related issues. She received her Ph.D. from Ohio University.

"Readers will welcome this book, not only for its wisdom and compassion, but also for its practical suggestions about how to initiate liberating conversation about sexual differences. Pastors especially will gain deep insight into how preaching a fully inclusive gospel can draw our communities into a more faithful realization of the reign of God. Hinnant demonstrates again and again how preaching is above all a theological act, a giving witness to the justice and compassion of God." --Thomas H. Troeger, Yale Divinity School and Institute of Sacred Music

OLIVE ELAINE HINNANT, an out lesbian, is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and the human resources administrator for Rainbow Vision Santa Fe, a resort retirement community for the LGBT community. She received her M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary and her D.Min. from Illif School of Theology.

This is a comprehensive guide to working with lesbian and gay youth. While secular, it addresses many of the issues pastors, youth ministers, and campus ministers will face when they are counseling lesbian and gay young people. It also contains a small section on transgender youth.

This practical handbook, written by two self-described "queer people of faith," covers the basic skills religious caregivers and ministry students need in order to be effective, enlightened, and supportive pastoral care providers to LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) persons within as well as outside their congregations and communities.

DAVID J. KUNDTZ was a priest for 18 years and is currently an author and psychotherapist with a 20-year counseling practice in Berkeley. He is an adjunct faculty member of the Pacific School of Religion and a member of the Bay Area advisory board of the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry. He earned his S.Th.D. from San Francisco Theological Seminary.

BERNARD S. SCHLAGER is director of national programming for the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry at Pacific School of Religion, where he is also an adjunct professor. Schlager is a consultant to private foundations on issues relating to LGBTQ people of faith and is founding director of the Bay Area Coalition of Welcoming Congregations. He received his Ph.D. from Yale University.

This book is a nine-week workbook for lesbian and gay Christians who have come to a crossroad in their journey, those who have renounced Christianity, but would like to go home; those who have disavowed their sexual orientation, but would like to come out; and those who are both out and at home, but have lingering questions.

Each day, the workbook directs the user to read a scripture passage, reflect on its application to her or his life as a lesbian or gay Christian, make notes, and pray about that day's topic. Whether individually, in a group setting, or as a complement to psychotherapy, those who utilize this resource will have the opportunity to revisit old topics and grow into a new and deepened walk with God.

MICHAL ANNE PEPPER earned her M.Div. from Brite School of Divinity in Fort Worth, Texas and her Ph.D. from Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas. She is a psychotherapist and the pastor of University Christian Church in Berkeley, California.

This comprehensive book deals specifically with transgendered youth and their care and counseling. It is an excellent resource for pastors, youth ministers, and campus ministers. It includes information specific to working with adolescents, as well as their families.

In Where the Edge Gathers, Flunder uses examples of persons most marginalized by church and society to illustrate the use of "village ethics"--knowing where the boundaries are when all things are exposed--and "village theology"--giving everyone a seat at the central meeting place or welcome table.

She focuses on the following marginalized groups:

• Same-sex couples, to convey the need to re-examine sexual and relational ethics
• Transgendered persons, to illustrate the importance of radical inclusivity
• Gay persons living with AIDS, to emphasize the need to de-stigmatize society's view of any group of people

This book, which combines both Flunder's personal experiences of working with marginalized persons and literature on the topic--will appeal to denominational leaders and clergy who minister to the marginalized or the inner city. YVETTE A. FLUNDER is senior pastor of City of Refuge United Church of Christ in San Francisco, California. She received her M.Div. from Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley and her D.Min. from San Francisco Theological Seminary. Flunder is also a renowned gospel recording artist.

Have you been looking for an AIDS curriculum that deals forthrightly with the many complex issues that must be addressed to save lives? Look no further!

Affirming Persons—Saving Lives responds to the real concerns of real people facing the dangers of HIV transmission and AIDS. Designed for multi-cultural Christian education settings, this groundbreaking resource also can be adapted for use by health and human service institutions, schools, health department and community based organizations.

In age-appropriate, non-judgmental language, Affirming Persons-Saving Lives nurtures self-esteem and integrates these components for effective AIDS education:

• Christian values, Bible study, theological reflection and prayer;
• Complete, factual HIV transmission and prevention information;
• Skills for ethical decision-making and decision-keeping;
• Skills for effectively refusing unwanted invitations to sexual intercourse and drug use;
• Skills for HIV transmission risk assessment;
• Mission education for AIDS ministry.

Affirming Persons—Saving Lives was created by the HIV/AIDS Ministry Program of the United Church Board for Homeland Ministries. Experienced AIDS educators, Cynthia A. Bouman and the Rev. Bill Johnson, Ed.D., are the co-authors. The curriculum is available for just the cost of shipping ($12).

To learn more about this curriculum, visit http://www.ucc.org/health/hivaids/apsl/.

All God’s Children is an essential guide to open and caring conversations with young children about gender and sexual orientation.  You’ll find that this small, user-friendly book addresses your concerns, your questions, and your search for just the right words; it also suggests ideas for sermons and classroom activities. As you read, you’ll learn to model openness, respect, and the affirming belief that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender difference, is a beloved child of God.  Anyone who has a loving relationship with young children—parents, family, friends, pastors, Sunday School teachers—will benefit from reading and discussing All God’s Children.

A collection of personal stories, articles, resources etc. about bisexual identity, experience, and Christian faith, developed with the help of BAMN!, the bisexual network within the United Church of Christ.

A feature-length documentary about Malcolm, a transgender man and his journey with faith, love and gender identity. Study materials, ordering and other information is available on the web at www.CallMeMalcolm.com or UC Resources.

An in depth Christian education study resource on marriage, including marriage equality for same gender loving couples.

To download a PDF of the God is Still Speaking About Marriage resource, please click here.

A seven session study packet for use in local congregations. Prepared by the Open and Affirming Task Team of the Massachusetts Conference, UCC, and the UCC Coalition. Materials on sexual orientation, youth issues (video included), family and relationships, heterosexism/homophobia, scriptural interpretation, the ONA process in the local church, and more. This packet includes both the Bisexuality Pocket and the Transgender Pocket listed below.

This film depicts three UCC congregations going through the ONA study process. It includes a 72-page resource book. 55 minutes.

This book is a nine-week workbook for lesbian and gay Christians who have come to a crossroad in their journey, those who have renounced Christianity, but would like to go home; those who have disavowed their sexual orientation, but would like to come out; and those who are both out and at home, but have lingering questions.

Each day, the workbook directs the user to read a scripture passage, reflect on its application to her or his life as a lesbian or gay Christian, make notes, and pray about that day's topic. Whether individually, in a group setting, or as a complement to psychotherapy, those who utilize this resource will have the opportunity to revisit old topics and grow into a new and deepened walk with God.

MICHAL ANNE PEPPER earned her M.Div. from Brite School of Divinity in Fort Worth, Texas and her Ph.D. from Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas. She is a psychotherapist and the pastor of University Christian Church in Berkeley, California.

This curriculum is designed as a study for youth groups and campus ministries about same-gender marriage. It can be done in one long session, or two shorter sessions.

A Spirited, ecumenical collection of prayers, liturgies, blessings, music, essays, sermons, and more, produced by the Welcoming Church Movement (programs like “Open and Affirming” in various denominations). Includes a study guide and resource lists.

Palmer and Haffner recognize that issues regarding sexuality and gender vary among the wide variety of denominations, geographies, and ethnic groups in the U.S., so they created this multi-faith study guide to help congregations seek answers to their questions about sexual orientation and gender identity. It is intended to address the broad spectrum of the American faith community, with the most up-to-date scientific and religious information. Includes resources for additional information and suggested questions for group discussion or individual reflection.

"Readers will welcome this book, not only for its wisdom and compassion, but also for its practical suggestions about how to initiate liberating conversation about sexual differences. Pastors especially will gain deep insight into how preaching a fully inclusive gospel can draw our communities into a more faithful realization of the reign of God. Hinnant demonstrates again and again how preaching is above all a theological act, a giving witness to the justice and compassion of God." --Thomas H. Troeger, Yale Divinity School and Institute of Sacred Music

OLIVE ELAINE HINNANT, an out lesbian, is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and the human resources administrator for Rainbow Vision Santa Fe, a resort retirement community for the LGBT community. She received her M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary and her D.Min. from Illif School of Theology.

Gene Robinson is bishop of the tiny, rural Episcopal Diocese of New Hampshire, but he's at the center of a storm of controversy raging in the Episcopal Church and throughout the worldwide Anglican Communion involving homosexuality, the priesthood, and the future of the Communion. This book offers an honest, thoughtful portrait of Robinson, the faith that has informed his life, and the controversy that continues to rock his Church.

Virginia Ramey Mollenkott

This book identifies ways in which the common understanding of gender as two opposite sexes is harmful to people, moves beyond this current gender construct to offer vision of a new, more flexible gender paradigm, known as “omnigender,” and offers a vision of what such an omnigendered society might look like, including suggestions for the educational, scientific, and political steps it will take to get there.

Sometimes wisecracking and always spellbinding, Rev. Nancy Wilson spins tales from her life in the trenches as senior pastor of the Metropolitan Community Church of Los Angeles. On a mission to radicalize the mainstream church, she passionately proclaims a "queer theology" that can lead all Christians--gay, lesbian, and straight--into the next millennium.

"Wilson, chief ecumenical officer of the gay and lesbian-oriented Metropolitan Community Church, senior pastor of the MCC in Los Angeles and self-styled "lesbian ecu-terrorist," exudes pithy humor and hard-nosed boldness. With this wide-ranging mixture of anecdotal autobiography and piercing deconstruction of passages in the Old and New Testaments that buttress homophobia (she calls them "texts of terror"), she charges into the next millennium filled with sharp criticism for the determined insistence of Catholics, mainline Protestants and evangelical fundamentalists that "queer" believers be kept at arm's length (or even farther) from the reconciling embrace Jesus taught. Herself a savvy survivor of the MCC's struggle to gain admission to the National Council of Churches, Wilson recalls an NCC official's 1992 statement about homosexuality as "the most divisive issue in the church since slavery," and finds that it remains true in 1995. Still, she finds hope in the fact that the church's almost monolithic resistance may be beginning to crack from the critical mass of books by such pro-gay religious apostles as John Shelby Spong, Virginia Ramey Mollenkott and John Boswell, and in the burgeoning Christian commitment of many gays and lesbians themselves." --PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.)

E-mail is the modern-day Epistle. Epistles (or letters) compose more than half the New Testament. A few of these are personal letters addressed to individuals, but are included in the Bible because they often address issues that remain relevant to other people, churches, and times. One of the ironies of modern life is that e-mail has brought about the rebirth of the art of letter writing.

The act of taking pen and paper and actually writing to people becomes increasingly rare, but each day Rev. Piazza corresponds with dozens, even hundreds, of people by e-mail. This has become the epistle of the 21st century. Each batch of e-mail brings questions and issues that one would never imagine. Many write to challenge the very idea that lesbian and gay people are children of God. Most who write are hurting. People seem to have an unending supply of troubles, questions, and conflicts. Many of the same issues arise repeatedly. Some write trying to help others answer questions asked of Rev. Piazza repeatedly.

Hence, Queeries: Questions Lesbians and Gays Have for God was written both to answer some of the most common questions and as a resource so people can help family and friends with their struggles. It should probably come as no surprise that many of the issues center on how faith intersects with sexuality. In particular, people seem to be looking for guidance to live out the new realities in which they find themselves sexually.

MICHAEL S. PIAZZA is a spiritual visionary, author and social justice advocate who currently serves as Dean and Senior Pastor of the Cathedral of Hope, the world’s largest inclusive and progressive Christian church with a primary outreach to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people. Under Rev. Piazza's courageous leadership, the Cathedral of Hope is setting new standards for compassionate evangelism, inclusive worship and national ministries, while at the same time making religious history.

This book is a nine-week workbook for lesbian and gay Christians who have come to a crossroad in their journey, those who have renounced Christianity, but would like to go home; those who have disavowed their sexual orientation, but would like to come out; and those who are both out and at home, but have lingering questions.

Each day, the workbook directs the user to read a scripture passage, reflect on its application to her or his life as a lesbian or gay Christian, make notes, and pray about that day's topic. Whether individually, in a group setting, or as a complement to psychotherapy, those who utilize this resource will have the opportunity to revisit old topics and grow into a new and deepened walk with God.

MICHAL ANNE PEPPER earned her M.Div. from Brite School of Divinity in Fort Worth, Texas and her Ph.D. from Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas. She is a psychotherapist and the pastor of University Christian Church in Berkeley, California.

Sensuous Spirituality, originally published in 1992, is about integration of sexuality and spirituality, social activism and personal peace, males and their "feminine" component, females and their "masculine" component, transgender people and full social appreciation. It discusses the Bible, the erotic, the gender continuum, the human imaging of God, procreative self-direction, interpretive communities, family-church parallels, and much more -- all in an autobiographical context and "generic feminine" language.

This revised and expanded edition features, in addition to a new preface and conclusion, nearly 60 new sources, new sections and discussions on numerous controversial issues regarding sexuality, gender, and religion and an index.

VIRGINIA RAMEY MOLLENKOTT is professor emeritus of English at William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey. She is the author of more than twelve books.

Perhaps the most revolutionary contribution of Take Back the Word is in its presentation of 21 essays featuring new and resistant practices of reading the Bible that challenge some of the prevailing "authorized" patterns of reading that allow the Bible to "clobber" oppressed people.

If lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender, and questioning people are to take back this word for themselves, they must take it back in a new way.

Trans-Gendered is the first title in a new series sponsored by The Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry at Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley, California.

“I have always felt drawn to those on the margins of the religious landscape, both from personal conviction and because the Bible clearly tells us that that is where we can locate the divine. Following Jesus has meant, for me as a Christian, a continuing journey to the margins, to spend time with those that society may ridicule and isolate, to see the beauty and power of God working with them. Transgendered people clearly occupy a marginal space in Western society. I believe that when we go to the margins, we see God.” - Justin Tanis

Tanis, a transgendered clergyperson seeks to explore the spiritual nature of transgendered persons, to listen to the stories of others like himself, and to give a positive voice to the community.

JUSTIN TANIS earned his M.Div. from Harvard Divinity School and his D.Min. from San Francisco Theological Seminary. He is director of leadership development for Metropolitan Community Churches in West Hollywood, California.

In Where the Edge Gathers, Flunder uses examples of persons most marginalized by church and society to illustrate the use of "village ethics"--knowing where the boundaries are when all things are exposed--and "village theology"--giving everyone a seat at the central meeting place or welcome table.

She focuses on the following marginalized groups:

• Same-sex couples, to convey the need to re-examine sexual and relational ethics
• Transgendered persons, to illustrate the importance of radical inclusivity
• Gay persons living with AIDS, to emphasize the need to de-stigmatize society's view of any group of people

This book, which combines both Flunder's personal experiences of working with marginalized persons and literature on the topic--will appeal to denominational leaders and clergy who minister to the marginalized or the inner city. YVETTE A. FLUNDER is senior pastor of City of Refuge United Church of Christ in San Francisco, California. She received her M.Div. from Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley and her D.Min. from San Francisco Theological Seminary. Flunder is also a renowned gospel recording artist.

A feature-length documentary about Malcolm, a transgender man and his journey with faith, love and gender identity. Study materials, ordering and other information is available on the web at www.CallMeMalcolm.com or UC Resources.

Virginia Ramey Mollenkott

This book identifies ways in which the common understanding of gender as two opposite sexes is harmful to people, moves beyond this current gender construct to offer vision of a new, more flexible gender paradigm, known as “omnigender,” and offers a vision of what such an omnigendered society might look like, including suggestions for the educational, scientific, and political steps it will take to get there.

by Lisa Mottet and Justin Tanis

The Nine Keys to Making Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Organizations Fully Transgender-Inclusive. From National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Policy Institute National Center for Transgender Equality

This comprehensive book deals specifically with transgendered youth and their care and counseling. It is an excellent resource for pastors, youth ministers, and campus ministers. It includes information specific to working with adolescents, as well as their families.

Trans-Gendered is the first title in a new series sponsored by The Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry at Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley, California.

“I have always felt drawn to those on the margins of the religious landscape, both from personal conviction and because the Bible clearly tells us that that is where we can locate the divine. Following Jesus has meant, for me as a Christian, a continuing journey to the margins, to spend time with those that society may ridicule and isolate, to see the beauty and power of God working with them. Transgendered people clearly occupy a marginal space in Western society. I believe that when we go to the margins, we see God.” - Justin Tanis

Tanis, a transgendered clergyperson seeks to explore the spiritual nature of transgendered persons, to listen to the stories of others like himself, and to give a positive voice to the community.

JUSTIN TANIS earned his M.Div. from Harvard Divinity School and his D.Min. from San Francisco Theological Seminary. He is director of leadership development for Metropolitan Community Churches in West Hollywood, California.

Personal stories, articles, resources, etc. about transgender identities, experiences, and Christian life.

Transgendering Faith is a resource to help churches respond with love and care to transgender people in our society, both those within the Christian community and those who find themselves--unhappily--outside its doors. It is also a book for transgender Christians, their families, pastoral counselors, and clergy.

The first section, "The Basics for Everyone," includes essays written by professionals and therapists who give readers a basic understanding of the transgender issue.

Part Two--"In Our Own Words"--features stories of transgender persons from diverse denominational, age, ethnic, and racial backgrounds. These are stories of their painful experiences of rejection, self-doubt and "Bible-flavored condemnation," but also stories celebrating God's blessing of who they are and their church and family experiences of hospitality, affirmation, and reconciliation.

Part Three includes worship resouces Bible studies, and transgender resources for individual and community use.

LEANNE McCALL TIGERT is an ordained United Church of Christ minister. She is the author of several books and coauthor of Coming Out Young and Faithful (2000), which won a Mayflower Award from The Pilgrim Press in 2003. She lives in Concord, New Hampshire.

MAREN C. TIRBASSI is an ordained United Church of Christ minister. She is co-author of DayBook for New Voices:A Calendar of Reflections and Prayers by and for Youth (The Pilgrim Press, 2004) and Blessing New Voices:Prayers of Young People and Worship Resouces for Youth Ministry. Tirabassi lives in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

In Where the Edge Gathers, Flunder uses examples of persons most marginalized by church and society to illustrate the use of "village ethics"--knowing where the boundaries are when all things are exposed--and "village theology"--giving everyone a seat at the central meeting place or welcome table.

She focuses on the following marginalized groups:

• Same-sex couples, to convey the need to re-examine sexual and relational ethics
• Transgendered persons, to illustrate the importance of radical inclusivity
• Gay persons living with AIDS, to emphasize the need to de-stigmatize society's view of any group of people

This book, which combines both Flunder's personal experiences of working with marginalized persons and literature on the topic--will appeal to denominational leaders and clergy who minister to the marginalized or the inner city. YVETTE A. FLUNDER is senior pastor of City of Refuge United Church of Christ in San Francisco, California. She received her M.Div. from Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley and her D.Min. from San Francisco Theological Seminary. Flunder is also a renowned gospel recording artist.

Pins are no more than 1" wide. Four different versions available:

• Ask Me My Story
• Another Man Again
• Pink Triangle
• Purple "God's Extravagent Welcome,"
• Purple Triangle

Coalition polo shirts, short-sleeved, black with bright pink Coalition logo. Sizes S, M, L, XL 2x, 3X

White stickers with purple Coalition fish/triangle logo.

100% preshrunk cotton long-sleeved t-shirts. Black shirts with bright pink Coalition logo (design on left chest area). Sizes: S, M, L, XL.

Bookmark size.

Download it here (PDF format). Or order printed version through our on-line store.

A feature-length documentary about Malcolm, a transgender man and his journey with faith, love and gender identity. Study materials, ordering and other information is available on the web at www.CallMeMalcolm.com or UC Resources.

A seven session study packet for use in local congregations. Prepared by the Open and Affirming Task Team of the Massachusetts Conference, UCC, and the UCC Coalition. Materials on sexual orientation, youth issues (video included), family and relationships, heterosexism/homophobia, scriptural interpretation, the ONA process in the local church, and more. This packet includes both the Bisexuality Pocket and the Transgender Pocket listed below.

This film depicts three UCC congregations going through the ONA study process. It includes a 72-page resource book. 55 minutes.

All God’s Children is an essential guide to open and caring conversations with young children about gender and sexual orientation.  You’ll find that this small, user-friendly book addresses your concerns, your questions, and your search for just the right words; it also suggests ideas for sermons and classroom activities. As you read, you’ll learn to model openness, respect, and the affirming belief that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender difference, is a beloved child of God.  Anyone who has a loving relationship with young children—parents, family, friends, pastors, Sunday School teachers—will benefit from reading and discussing All God’s Children.

Leanne McCall Tigert and Timothy Brown, eds.

Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or questioning teenagers tell of their lives in a fresh, candid, and honest manner. This resource will help individuals and faith communities respond to GLBT youth and young adults.

This is a comprehensive guide to working with lesbian and gay youth. While secular, it addresses many of the issues pastors, youth ministers, and campus ministers will face when they are counseling lesbian and gay young people. It also contains a small section on transgender youth.

Gay and Straight Teens Write About Homosexuality, by Youth Communication, 1996

Bookmark size.

Download it here (PDF format). Or order printed version through our on-line store.

This curriculum is designed as a study for youth groups and campus ministries about same-gender marriage. It can be done in one long session, or two shorter sessions.

This comprehensive book deals specifically with transgendered youth and their care and counseling. It is an excellent resource for pastors, youth ministers, and campus ministers. It includes information specific to working with adolescents, as well as their families.

For examples of workshops conducted by the YYA Program, please click here.