Matthew Vines’ op-ed in The New York Times (“I’m Gay, Not Queer. It Matters.”), in which he clarifies (?) his identity, presents such a tired, shortsighted argument that at first I couldn’t believe how much of a reaction it provoked in me. Then John Pavlovitz
After 30 years of ministry, here’s what we’ve learned about the future of our faith Who gets to belong to God? That question has echoed through pews and pulpits for centuries. Too often, the answer thrown at LGBTQ+ people has been cruel, conditional, and cold.
Since coming out in the 90s I’ve been through a lot of evolutions, wandering the fringes of Christianity. No home church or pastor, no place for Bible study. Whosoever has been one of the few consistent venues in my faith journey. So where am I
Every time I reach for my wife Caroline’s hand in public, I pause. It’s such a small gesture — two hands brushing — yet it can still feel as if it’s an act of courage. That hesitation says a lot about what it means to
Some churches have changed the gospel message, making LGBTQ+ Christians feel like their sexuality must be repented of to fit in. Harm happens when faith is turned against you. This harm doesn’t come from Jesus. It comes from the idea of Him that some churches
There are weeks when the world feels unbearably loud. Threats, warnings, and declarations seem to fill every corner of public life, and lately much of that noise has centered on Iran. Some political figures have spoken in tones that feel almost apocalyptic, invoking divine sanction,
Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you enter your kingdom.” [Jesus] said, “Don’t worry, I will. Today you will join me in paradise.” (Luke 23:42-43) A few years ago, I was included in a meeting with a group of clergy who had received a large
Is literally everything forgivable? Lent in the Christian faith invites us into a period of deep reflection. It is time to look inward, to examine the landscape of our own hearts, and to consider the paths of repentance and renewal. As we walk this journey,
Love the ‘sinner,’ period If there are two phrases often lobbed at LGBTQ+ people that really get my blood boiling, they’re that old chestnut “Love the sinner, hate the sin” and any version of “Loving you doesn’t mean I have to like or accept you.”
Remarks delivered at the Dakota OutRight Capital Pride 2023 Multifaith Worship Service. The Golden Rule. A maxim revered in some similar form in almost every ethical tradition. What do these words mean? Who is our neighbor? How do we live with open ears and open