I recently read a book that I feel is invaluable to not only the personal coming out experience, but also in reconciling Christian faith with our sexuality. Gifted By Otherness, Gay and Lesbian Christians in the Church by L. William Countryman and M. R. Riley explores and defines the role of lesbians and gays within all Christian-based churches.

The authors – L. William Countryman (a gay Episcopal priest and professor at New Testament of the Church of the Pacific in Berkeley, CA) and M. R. Ritley (a lesbian Episcopal priest in San Francisco) begin this well-written, easy to read book by sharing their personal coming out experiences with humor and honesty. Not only will many lesbian and gay men see themselves in these honest, sometimes painful accounts; but any individual open to the Spirit’s wisdom and love will feel the warmth of their stories. Because of their positions within the Church, they are able to offer more depth of their own personal journeys among leaders and parishioners alike.

Buy Yours Here Gay and lesbian Christians are in the awkward position of trying to explain themselves to two mutually hostile audiences. On the one side, the gay-lesbian community is often deeply suspicious of anyone connected with Christianity. On the other side sits the church, which often wishes that gays and lesbians would go away, or at least disappear into the woodwork quietly. But the gay and lesbian community has a unique vocation in today's church, one of challenging the church to be inclusive of all God's children - the central message of the Gospel.

From years of theological study, the authors are able to use scripture to reaffirm the special love and plan God holds for lesbians and gay men. Their message of lesbians and gay men as a unique and gifted minority, intended by God’s design to enrich the church with our full inclusion and presence, weaves a joyful message of love and respect between the Lord and His faithful followers.

This book offers a deep and spiritual message to Christians of all sexual orientations. In a world where differences are often viewed with fear and hostility, this book shines a light of strength and hope that all of God’s children can find their way to God’s gift of love and fellowship.

Gifted By Otherness challenges us to take courage in following the teachings of Jesus Christ to love each other as He has loved us. Countryman and Ritley teach and encourage us to take our place at God’s table, without shame or apology to others, and to proclaim the blessings God has bestowed upon us.

Gifted By Otherness is a must-read for all Christians – lesbian, gay or straight – and most especially, for anyone who is experiencing difficulty in reconciling God’s plan for His lesbian and gay children.

Until next time...