To the Tune of a Welcoming God: Lyrical Reflections on Sexuality, Spirituality, and the Wideness of God's Welcome

by David R. Weiss

A timely collection of essays and hymns eloquently calling for a Christian faith that extends an affirming welcome to gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons. To the Tune of a Welcoming God brings academic insight, prophetic vision, and poetic clarity to the question of the church's welcome to those GLBT Christians at its doorstep and already in its pews. Author David Weiss, while rooted deeply in his own Lutheran context, reaches out in these engaging and provocative writings to challenge, encourage, and empower persons regardless of their particular tradition. Teachers, students, pastors, and laypersons whether gay or straight will find these short texts worthy of long reflection and conversation.

182 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2008

Reviews

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this volume in the bookstore of Holden Village while there on a spiritual retreat. And what a blessing it was to read. Written in 2008, in the midst of the struggle within the ELCA to recognize the ministry and humanity of LGBTQ people in the life of the church, Weiss puts forth scriptural, theological and moral imperatives for the full inclusion of LGBTQ people. Easy to read, yet also deep in our faith traditions and Scriptural heritage, Weiss called the church to task for its failure to stand up for justice. Ultimately, the church did move forward by the gifts of the Holy Spirit in future years, but also the work and tenacity of folks like Weiss. The volume also concludes with helpful poetic and hymn resources that are still very valuable to the worship life of the church today. What a refreshing find at the bookstore!

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book spoke to me and gave me, as a gay Christian, greater perspective. I hope to read it again at some time.