Do you know and love a member of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community? Do you feel that society’s message is at odds with the message of the church? Do you believe that we are called as Christians to love our neighbor regardless of their/our sexual orientation but wonder what that looks like in practical terms?
For most of us, we have more questions than answers. The “Gays vs. Christians Debate” is often very personal, yet it is difficult to talk about in ways that honor each other’s perspectives, stories, and convictions.
We invite you to join us beginning Thursday, October 17th for a six week study and conversation based on the book, Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate, by Justin Lee*. Lee is an openly gay Christian who shares his story in a very compelling and informative way. His book is graceful to those on all sides of the debate, and he invites civil discourse and bridge building between the church and the LGBT community. (It has been called a “must read” and a “game changer” among its many positive reviews.)
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The goal of this conversation is two-fold:
First, through listening to the story of Justin and of other individuals at the heart of the debate, we hope to shed some light on some common misconceptions, myths, and misinformation about the LGBT community and what it means to be gay and Christian.
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Second, we will spend some time looking honestly at ourselves and our own actions. We will consider the following question: What role to do we (as individuals and as the Church) play in either building bridges or creating barriers for those who are earnestly seeking relationship with God?
Justin Lee's story matters. And your story matters. We hope that you will consider joining us as we begin this conversation and seek to live out Jesus’ command to love our neighbors as ourselves.
This event is hosted by the PUMC Small Group, "JWEL - Justice through Witness, Equality and Love" and is open to the community. You can RSVP (optional) and invite your neighbors by joining our Facebook event page.
*You do not need to read the book ahead of time. Copies will be available at the first meeting.
Where: Plainfield United Methodist Church, Room 205
When: Begins Thursday, October 17 – 6:30-7:30, Childcare Available
