Relevancy22: Contemporary Process Christianity: Post-Evangelic Topics and Theology: Religious Intolerance & Persecution

Religious Intolerance & Persecution

Doing What's Right

I'm told Alexa is the writer and inspiration behind this book and that her dad was the helper behind her heartfelt project. As transgenderism is the topic of the day it should also be explored by those trans-- writers who have something to say about themselves and their Faith.

Older generations may continue in their misunderstandings of the LGBTQ+ society as might conservative churches - but a God who loves neither shuns, belittles, or looks at others without checking the planks in their own bible verse interpretations and beliefs.

I, for one, believe it is right and necessary for all individuals to have civil rights under America's Constitution. And, as Christians, to acknowledge that the salvation of Christ extends to all recipients regardless of who we think should be in or out of the Christian faith.

There are Christian transgenders who need and want fellowship. We may not be the ones to help but we must all be able to see one another in Christ. If not, the sin lies not in the other but in our own eyes and hearts.

Perhaps, to see Christ better, Alexa's book should be read to help reduce the self-righteous spirits which grips the heart of all religionists and churchly faithful.

Thank you for picking up a copy and reading!

R.E. Slater

April 28, 2023

Amazon link

This book fundamentally changes the game for the Church of the Nazarene.

A growing number of people are calling for fresh conversations about sexuality and gender. And many want fundamental change. This book gives voice to those people.

There are strong reasons the Church of the Nazarene should become fully LGBTQ+ affirming. The writers of these essays – whether queer or straight – lay out those reasons, share their experiences, and explain why change is needed.

Love rests at the heart of the denomination’s view of God. And yet its statement about human sexuality does not support the ways of love.

At least in America, the Church of the Nazarene is rapidly shrinking. Many people are leaving the denomination because of its views on LGBTQ+ matters. According to research, in fact, the holiness movement is the worst at keeping young people.

This book offers hope. Hearing the voices of queer people, allies, and scholars is a crucial step toward transformation.

For love to win in the Church of the Nazarene, change is needed.

ABOUT THE EDITORS

Thomas Jay Oord is a theologian, philosopher, and scholar of multi-disciplinary studies. Oord has been an ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene for more than 30 years, taught at two Nazarene institutions of higher education, and published many books through the denomination’s publishing house. A best-selling author, Oord currently directs doctoral students at Northwind Theological Seminary. Website: thomasjayoord.com

Alexa MacKenzie Oord is a graduate of Harvard University and Simmons University. Oord currently serves as an Administrative Assistant in Undergraduate Student Life at Columbia University in New York. She also works as Senior Editor at SacraSage Press. Website: sacrasagepress.com