“Why Churches Need to Talk about Sexuality: Lessons Learned from Hard Conversations about Sex, Gender, Identity, and the Bible”
Mark Wingfield
Fortress Press, 2019, 176 Pages

At A Glance: “Why Churches Need to Talk about Sexuality” is an essential guide for church leaders on engaging in transformative conversations about 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion, reflecting on a real congregation’s journey and the profound impact such dialogues have on faith communities.

Overview: In “Why Churches Need to Talk about Sexuality,” journalist and pastor Mark Wingfield shares the experience of his congregation’s comprehensive study on the inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ members. The book is a practical guide for clergy and lay leaders across Protestant denominations, providing insights into facilitating dialogues about sexuality within church communities.

Wingfield details the study’s process, led by a diverse nineteen-member task force, capturing the emotional and spiritual impact on individuals both within and outside the church. The narrative underscores the necessity of such discussions in faith communities, acknowledging the challenges while emphasizing the imperative to engage in these vital conversations for the growth and inclusivity of the church.

Thoughts from Readers: