Pastors' Conversation: Navigating LGBT issues & questions

In the tumultuous and often polarized climate in the Christian community on issues of sexuality, New Direction focuses on the postures of peace-making and bridge-building. Acknowledging the reality of diverse perspectives, the question before the church is, "how now shall we live and serve together?"

One point of common ground and a non-negotiable tenet of the gospel is the call to hospitality. Within the context of generous spaciousness, all people, no matter who they are, have room to wrestle with their questions and to explore and embrace robust faith in Christ. Dismantling the "litmus test" surrounding the topic of homosexuality allows leaders, gay Christians and fellow followers of Christ to focus on their relationship with God, self and others in the context of a healthy and vibrant community of faith. A willingness to live with some tension on this increasingly disputed matter offers the opportunity for spiritual formation as we grow in our capacity to be patient, humble, gracious and generous with one another.