Resources for LGBTQIA+ Christians
& Allies
Resources and LGBTQIA+ Organizations :
Affirming Christian Organizations & Ministries
The Reformation Project – Dedicated to reforming church teaching on sexual orientation and gender identity through scholarship, education, and advocacy.
📍www.reformationproject.orgCanyonWalker Connections – Led by Kathy Baldock, a scholar and LGBTQIA+ advocate who has dedicated her life to debunking biblical myths about homosexuality.
📍 www.canyonwalkerconnections.comBeloved Arise – Beloved Arise is the first national organization dedicated specifically to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth of faith. The organization provides resources, community, and advocacy to ensure that queer youth feel seen, valued, and loved—especially in faith spaces where they might otherwise feel excluded.
📍 www.belovedarise.orgQ Christian Fellowship – A diverse, ecumenical organization fostering safe spaces and theological dialogue for LGBTQIA+ Christians.
📍 www.qchristian.orgCenterPeace – CenterPeace is a fully affirming, Christ-centered ministry that cultivates spiritual community for LGBTQIA+ individuals. They offer both in-person and virtual events, providing support for LGBTQIA+ people, parents, and ministry leaders.
📍 centerpeace.netTyler Clementi Foundation – An organization dedicated to ending online and offline bullying, particularly in faith communities. They provide educational resources and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ youth and their families. 📍tylerclementi.org
Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) – A global Christian denomination founded to provide an inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ people of faith. MCC congregations emphasize justice, full participation in sacraments, and LGBTQIA+ leadership in church life.
Making Things Right - Making Things Right is an initiative that seeks to rethink the Christian response and responsibility to LGBTQ+ people. You might be a friend or a parent of an LGBTQ+ individual, trying to reconcile your love for them with your beliefs. You may be a church leader looking for better ways to navigate an often divisive dialogue.
Denominational Affirming Groups
These organizations work within specific Christian denominations to advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in church leadership, worship, and community life.
Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists – The only organization devoted to supporting LGBTQIA+ Baptists and their allies in the U.S.
📍 www.awab.orgMore Light Presbyterians – Works within the Presbyterian Church (USA) to ensure full participation of LGBTQIA+ people in all aspects of church life.
📍 www.mlp.orgReconciling Ministries Network (United Methodist Church) – A movement advocating for LGBTQIA+ inclusion within the United Methodist Church.
📍 www.rmnetwork.orgReconcilingWorks (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) – Works to fully include LGBTQIA+ individuals in Lutheran communities.
📍 www.reconcilingworks.orgNew Ways Ministry (Catholic Church) – Advocates for LGBTQIA+ justice and inclusion within the Catholic Church.
📍 www.newwaysministry.orgDignityUSA (Catholic Church) – Provides a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ Catholics and their families.
📍 www.dignityusa.orgDisciples LGBTQ+ Alliance - Advocates for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) through education, training, and policy change. 📍 www.disciplesallianceq.org
Open and Affirming Coalition (ONA) - A movement within the United Church of Christ that supports LGBTQIA+ inclusion in ministry and leadership.
Fellowship of Reconciling Pentecostals International (RPI) - A network of Pentecostal ministers, churches, and ministries working to affirm all people, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
Organizations Supporting Parents of LGBTQIA+ Individuals
Free Mom Hugs – Founded by Sara Cunningham, Free Mom Hugs is a national organization that empowers the world to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community through visibility, education, and conversation.
📍 www.freemomhugs.orgMama Bears – Established by Liz Dyer, Mama Bears is dedicated to supporting, educating, and empowering families with LGBTQIA+ members and the LGBTQIA+ community.
📍 www.realmamabears.orgMama Dragons – A nonprofit organization that supports, educates, and empowers mothers of LGBTQIA+ children.
📍 www.mamadragons.orgEmbracing the Journey is dedicated to building bridges between LGBTQIA+ individuals, their families, and the Church. They offer virtual Parent Care Groups to support Christian parents navigating the complexities of having an LGBTQIA+ child, ensuring no parent has to journey alone.
📍 embracingthejourney.orgPFLAG - Founded in 1973, PFLAG is the first and largest organization for LGBTQIA+ people, their parents and families, and allies. They offer support, education, and advocacy through local chapters across the United States.
📍https://pflag.org/
Books on LGBTQIA+ and Religion
UnClobber: Rethinking Our Misuse of the Bible on Homosexuality (2016) - Martin addresses the so-called "clobber passages" used to condemn homosexuality, offering fresh interpretations that promote inclusivity. by: Colby Martin
God and the Gay Christian: The Biblical Case in Support of Same-Sex Relationships (2014) - Vines presents a compelling argument for the acceptance of same-sex relationships within Christianity, carefully analyzing relevant biblical texts. by Matthew Vines
Walking the Bridgeless Canyon: Repairing the Breach Between the Church and the LGBTQ Community – Baldock explores the historical, cultural, medical, and religious factors that have shaped the divide between the Christian church and the LGBTQIA+ community. Through in-depth research and storytelling, she offers a path toward reconciliation, understanding, and full inclusion in faith communities. by: Kathy Baldock.
Transforming: The Bible and the Lives of Transgender Christians (2018) - Hartke combines personal narratives with biblical analysis to explore the experiences of transgender Christians, providing insights into gender identity and faith. by Austen Hartke
Wrestling with God and Men: Homosexuality in the Jewish Tradition – Greenberg, an openly gay Orthodox rabbi, examines traditional Jewish texts and teachings on homosexuality, offering a thoughtful and scholarly approach to reconciling LGBTQIA+ identity with Jewish faith. Through personal narrative and rigorous analysis, he challenges long-held interpretations and advocates for a more compassionate and inclusive understanding within Judaism. by: Steven Greenberg.
Included in Christ – A biblical and theological case for full LGBTQIA+ inclusion in Christianity, examining scriptural interpretations through a lens of love, justice, and historical context. by: Dr. Cristy Perdue.
Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate (2012) - Lee shares his personal story as a gay Christian, advocating for a bridge-building. by: Justin Lee
Embracing the Journey: A Christian Parents' Blueprint to Loving Your LGBTQ Child - This memoir chronicles the McDonald family's twenty-year journey from grief to gratitude and acceptance, leading them to establish one of the first Christian ministries for parents of LGBTQIA+ children. The book offers tools for understanding emotional patterns and spiritual challenges. by: Greg and Lynn McDonald.
God Still Breathes, Why Can’t I? – This book critically examines biblical interpretation through a womanist lens, challenging oppressive readings of scripture while highlighting the importance of liberation, justice, and divine presence in marginalized communities. by: Rev. Dr. Angela N. Parker
Bodies, Violence, & Emotions – A powerful exploration of how theology, race, gender, and lived experience intersect, this book discusses the embodied realities of marginalized people and how faith communities can better address issues of violence, injustice, and emotional well-being. by: Rev. Dr. Angela N. Parker
Women, Ideology, and Violence: Critical Theory and the Construction of Gender in the Book of the Covenant and the Deuteronomic Law – (2004) This book explores the intersection of gender, law, and violence in biblical texts, analyzing how patriarchal ideology has shaped religious traditions. Anderson applies critical feminist theory to reframe biblical laws through a lens of gender equity and social justice. by: Dr. Cheryl B. Anderson
Affirming: A Memoir of Faith, Sexuality, and Staying in the Church (2021): This sequel delves into Gary's continued journey, exploring her decision to remain in the church while embracing an affirming stance toward same-sex relationships. by: Sally Gary
Scripture, Ethics, and the Possibility of Same-Sex Relationships (2018): Keen offers a thoughtful examination of biblical texts related to same-sex relationships, engaging with both affirming and non-affirming perspectives to provide a nuanced discussion on the topic. by: Karen R. Keen
Bible, Gender, Sexuality: Reframing the Church's Debate on Same-Sex Relationships (2013) - Brownson re-examines key biblical passages concerning same-sex relationships, challenging traditional interpretations and advocating for a more inclusive understanding. by: Dr. James V. Brownson
Changing Our Mind (2014): Gushee, a prominent Christian ethicist, shares his journey toward fully affirming LGBTQIA+ individuals within the church, discussing the ethical and theological considerations that influenced his perspective. by: Dr. David P. Gushee
Podcasts Resources
Loving Kindness Everyday Podcast – Hosted by Kindness Calloway, this podcast brings raw conversations and radical self-compassion to the forefront. From healing trauma and church hurt to exploring faith, sexuality, and beyond, it’s an honest and heartfelt space where the divine meets everyday life.
Data Over Dogma Podcast – Hosted by Dan McClellan, this podcast explores biblical scholarship and theology with an evidence-based approach.
The New Evangelicals – This podcast dives into topics of faith, deconstruction, and social justice from a progressive evangelical perspective.
1946: The Culture Shift Tour – A podcast companion to 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture, featuring discussions on biblical mistranslation, church history, and LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
Shift Happens – A podcast exploring faith transitions, evolving beliefs, and the intersection of spirituality and social change.
The Bible for Normal People – Hosted by Pete Enns and Jared Byas, this podcast offers accessible conversations on biblical scholarship, faith deconstruction, and rethinking traditional theology. 📍 The Bible for Normal People
Film Resources
For the Bible Tells Me So
This documentary explores how religious beliefs have been used to justify discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals, featuring interviews with families and religious leaders advocating for acceptance and understanding.
📍 For the Bible Tells Me SoPray Away
This film examines the "ex-gay" movement, featuring former leaders and survivors who speak out against the practices of conversion therapy and its harmful effects on the LGBTQIA+ community.
📍 Pray AwayFor They Know Not What They Do
This documentary follows the journeys of four religious families with LGBTQIA+ children, highlighting their struggles and transformations toward acceptance and love.
📍 For They Know Not What They DoTruth Be Told
Directed by Nneka Onuorah, this documentary presents an unfiltered look at the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals within the Black church, amplifying activist voices and calling for recognition and change.
📍 Truth Be ToldConversion
This film delves into the controversial practice of conversion therapy, shedding light on its psychological impact and the movement to ban such practices.
📍 Conversion
Finding an LGBTQIA+ affirming Church:
Finding an LGBTQIA+ affirming church is essential for individuals seeking a faith community that embraces inclusivity and respect. Here are steps and resources to help you identify and connect with affirming congregations:
1. Utilize Affirming Church Directories:
GayChurch.org: This directory lists over 9,000 affirming Christian churches worldwide. You can search by location to find a welcoming congregation near you.
gaychurch.orgChurchClarity.org: A crowd-sourced database that scores churches based on the clarity of their policies regarding LGBTQ+ inclusion and women in leadership.
churchclarity.orgInclusive Church Directory: A network of churches committed to inclusivity across various denominations.
inclusive-church.org
2. Review the Church’s Online Presence:
Welcoming Statements: Look for explicit statements on the church's website that mention inclusivity of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
queertheology.comSocial Media and Imagery: Check for inclusive language, diverse imagery, and signs of support for the LGBTQIA+ community, such as rainbow flags or mentions of Pride events.
3. Understand Denominational Stances:
Some denominations have official affirming positions or networks:
United Church of Christ (UCC): Many UCC congregations identify as "Open and Affirming," explicitly welcoming LGBTQIA+ individuals.
openandaffirming.orgChristian Church (Disciples of Christ): This denomination has voted to affirm and welcome LGBTQ+ people in all aspects of church life, including leadership.
hrc.org
4. Engage with the Community:
Visit and Observe: Attend a service to see if the environment feels affirming. Pay attention to the language used in sermons and the diversity of the congregation.
Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to inquire directly about the church's stance on LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Affirming churches will be transparent and supportive in their responses.
5. Look for Affirming Symbols:
Visual Cues: Symbols like the rainbow flag displayed on church property or within the sanctuary can indicate an affirming stance.
6. Seek Personal Recommendations:
Community Insights: Connect with local LGBTQIA+ groups or online forums to get recommendations for affirming churches in your area.
Remember, an affirming church not only welcomes LGBTQIA+ individuals but also actively supports and includes them in all aspects of church life. Taking the time to research and engage with potential congregations will help ensure you find a spiritual home that aligns with your values and needs.
Final Thoughts:
We believe that faith and LGBTQIA+ identity are not mutually exclusive. Our hope is that this list will serve as a resource to challenge harmful theology, empower conversations, and create spaces of healing and inclusion. We hope you found this information helpful. Please email any thoughts or suggestions to: 1946themovieinfo@gmail.com
