Don't Ask, Don't Tell
Homosexuality, Chaplaincy, and the Modern Military
Edited by John D. Laing and Page Matthew Brooks
Foreword by Douglas L. Carver
Imprint: Resource Publications
The repeal of the government's policy on homosexual military service, known as Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT), has caused much concern among Christian military service members, especially chaplains, and has led to much debate about the morality of homosexuality, the ideal of free speech, and the role of clergy in public service. Can it be scientifically demonstrated that homosexuality is normal? What has homosexual political activity shown to be their agenda, if any? What does the Bible say about homosexuality? How can chaplains who disagree with the homosexual lifestyle respond to the repeal in a way that retains their prophetic voice, but protects them from prosecution? How can chaplains minister to homosexual service members and their families in a post-DADT military? These are just some of the questions addressed in this important work by a group of scholars and chaplains, many of whom serve or have served in the academy, the military, and the church.
John D. Laing is Associate Professor of Systematic Theology and Philosophy at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary's Havard School in Houston, Texas. He also serves as the Division Chaplain for the 36th Infantry Division in the Texas Army National Guard. His deployments include Operations Noble Eagle (ONE), Kosovo Force (7), and Iraqi Freedom.
Page Matthew Brooks is Assistant Professor of Theology and Islamic Studies at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He also serves as a Brigade Chaplain in the Louisiana Army National Guard. His deployments include Operation Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn.
"Seeking sound guidance for military chaplains following repeal of [Don't Ask, Don't Tell]? Look between the covers of this book! You'll find an exceptional treasure . . . a concise and trusty guide through the medical, legal, political, social, moral, theological, and biblical maze. Belongs on every chaplain's shelf. . . NOW!"
--Chaplain Don Muchow, RADM, USN (RET), Twentieth Navy Chief of Chaplains
"The American church stands at the crossroads today perhaps unlike any other generation of Christians in recent history. The writers of this book challenge us personally to choose the right course as we stand at the crossroad of human sexuality issues, and that we faithfully instruct and guide those under our God-anointed pastoral leadership as well."
--From the foreword by Douglas L. Carver