Online Resources for GLBT Christians
Below is a collection of resources for those who seek faithful understanding of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) people and their families; also, for all, including GLBT Christians, who seek to deepen their knowledge and awareness of Christian perspectives.
This sheet is intended for print distribution, as well as online distribution allowing direct access to the links provided.
Prepared for St. Olaf College Community Life and Diversity Information Session, 11:30 am, September 28, 2006.
Links are presented in alphabetical order.
American Friends Service Committee
http://www.afsc.org/lgbt/faith-organizing.htm#resources
Organizing within faith communities. Peace Building Messages and Principles for Nonviolent Dialogue are highly recommended.
- American Psychological Association
http://www.apa.org/pi/lgbc/publications/pubsreports.html
"Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Concerns" Section. Answers to Your Questions about Sexual Orientation and Homosexuality is a helpful brochure, along with many others listed at this site. Briefing Sheet on Same-Sex Families and Relationships (2006).
- "Analysis of a Religiously-Based Anti-Gay Essay"
http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom_essa.htm
A strong refutation, point by point, of common anti-GLBT statements made by many Christians
- The Bible and the Homosexual
http://members.aol.com/DrSwiney/bennett.html
Another Biblical re-consideration.
- DignityUSA
http://www.dignityusa.org/
Envisions and works for a time when GLBT Catholics are affirmed and experience dignity through integration of their spirituality with their sexuality, and as beloved persons of God participate fully in all aspects of life within the Church and Society.
- Focus on the Family
http://www.family.org/
To cooperate with the Holy Spirit in disseminating the Gospel of Jesus Christ to as many people as possible, and, specifically, to accomplish that objective by helping to preserve traditional values and the institution of the family.
1. Read the Focus on the Family FAQ (most frequently asked questions), especially the answer to #22, "Why can't Focus be more inclusive of gay people? "
2. http://www.pureintimacy.org/gr/homosexuality/ for short essays on a variety of topics
- Human Rights Campaign
http://www.hrc.org/
Go to Get Informed in the sidebar of link #2, and click on Religion and Faith for HRC's interfaith initiatives, including:
1. Sign up to receive their preaching and devotional resource Out In Scripture, new in September 2006
2. "Living Openly in Your Place of Worship" guide offers suggestions and resources. Highly recommended.
3. Under More information, click on LGBT Affirming Religious Organizations for listing of 36 faith traditions.
- Institute for Welcoming Resources
http://www.welcomingresources.org/
Supports the unconditional welcome of people of all sexual orientations, gender identities & their families in the church home of their choice. Also, from the News Service drop down menu go to Archive News for a weekly listing. Spanish-language materials available.
- National Black Justice Coalition
http://www.nbjc.org/
Issues dropdown menu, go to Religious Issues
- Public Agenda
http://www.publicagenda.org/issues/frontdoor.cfm?issue_type=gay_rights
A nonpartisan opinion research and civic engagement organization helping Americans explore and understand critical issues. In Understanding the Issue, go to the heading under Discussion Guide titled "3 perspectives along with pros and cons of each approach ."
- Soulforce
http://www.soulforce.org/
From the principles of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Soulforce seeks freedom for LGBT people from religious and political oppression through relentless nonviolent resistance. Responds to Focus on the Family belief that homosexuality is inherently sick and sinful.
- The Southern Poverty Law Center
http://www.splcenter.org/intel/intelreport/intrep.jsp?iid=31
Internationally known for tolerance education programs, legal victories against white supremacists and for tracking hate groups. For the first time, the approaches by some Christian anti-gay organizations within the religious right have qualified them as hate groups.
- Spiritual Fruits
http://www.spiritualfruits.com/
A slightly comical, not very professional site that addresses a lot of apparent problems between Christianity and being GLBT. Essays on this site are excellent discussion-starters.
- Whosoever
http://whosoever.org/
An on-line magazine for GLBT Christians. New edition every two months. Also, at http://www.whosoever.org/godcast/index.shtml, click on the Whosoever godcast page. Also has info for those new to podcasting.
