How we minister matters--especially to those who have already been hurt by the church. Instead of ministering out of God's love and compassion, the church has often ministered to the Queer community out of a deep-rooted fear. Why do we administer hatred instead of allowing the balm of the Holy Spirit's tender care to define our actions?
The integrity of the gospel message has been hurt by the way many of us have wielded the power we have been given. Becoming Community is a call for us to renew our Christian commitment to social responsibility and justice as a primary focus of the church. We must challenge the practices and visions which we hold most important in our communities. Are our ministries truly inclusive to all who would seek to find solace at the feet of Christ?
Regardless of whether a person might adopt a philosophy of affirmation or denial of queer practices as God-honoring, one trait must remain in our response: inclusion. Without intentionally inclusive language, care, and practice, can the church live up to the higher calling that we have been given? Is it possible for every individual to be genuinely included in our communities?
Olivia A. Phillips has served in a variety of cross-cultural ministries and co-planted a church in Toronto with her husband, David. During these years of ministry, Olivia began to identify barriers which make the gospel less accessible due to culture, language, or lifestyle. Her goal in ministry is to empower all of God’s children to thrive in transformed lives and communities. She and David have a two-year-old child, Tristan.
“This book is a must-read for everyone in ministry today. Olivia Phillips offers a bold call to reconsider the way we minister the grace of God on behalf of all God’s people. She provides a crystal-clear introduction to matters of sexual identity with a particular focus on contemporary North American culture in Canada and the United States. Phillips’ pastoral heart especially shines in parts two and three as she unfolds immediately applicable, tangible suggestions for caring ministry. A refreshing approach to offering the grace of God in the way of Jesus. Highly recommended.”
—Douglas R. Cullum, Vice President and Dean, Northeastern Seminary, Roberts Wesleyan College