Study Guides and Worship Resources

Claiming the Promise: An Ecumenical Welcoming Bible Study on Homosexuality (Leader Guide)
Editor: Mary Jo Osterman
This ground-breaking curriculum on the Bible and homosexuality is perfect for individual study or group discussion on sexuality and Christianity. The complete study kit includes leader and participant guides for eight sessions. Lessons and discussions will:
Explore biblical authority and biblical interpretation.
Examine biblical references to same-sex conduct in light of the broader biblical message which affirms that we are children or heirs of the Promise.
Discuss “gracious hospitality,” “gift-ed sexuality” and “supportive spirituality.”
Tackle hard questions of “right relationship,” lust / love, and sexual responsibility.
Call all Christians to live out God’s Promises as reconciling disciples. 

Holy Conversations: Talking About Homosexuality
Co-Authors: Karen P. Oliveto, Kelly D. Turney, Traci C. West
A six week discussion guide using the Wesleyan Quadrilateral to help groups reflect on Christian beliefs and personal experiences about sexual orientation. Through conversation, study and exercises participants engage in thoughtful, spiritual discussion about sexuality and spirituality. 

Listening to the Spirit: A Handbook for Discernment
Editor: William Paulsell
A book full of exercises and prayers that help groups learn to listen to the Holy Spirit for guidance when discussing difficult issues. Prayers and writings focus upon groups exploring ways to work to end discrimination based upon sexual orientation or gender identity.

A Reconciling Cookbook: Recipes for an Inclusive Church
Editor: Kelly Turney
A handbook of activities and strategies first developed for advocacy at the 2000 General Conference. This resource book is full of a wide variety of creative ideas for serious and fun moments which are useful for churches, Sunday school classes or regional groups.

Shaping Sanctuary: Proclaiming God’s Grace In An Inclusive ChurchEditor: Kelly Turney
Over 300 pages of inclusive worship materials (including essays, liturgies and hymns) with an eight week study guide on inclusive worship planning, a complete index and recommendations on other resources.

This I Know
This I Know, a multi-week companion study to the documentary For the Bible Tells Me So Co-authors: Brian McLaren, Jack Rogers, Victor Paul Furnish, Nancy Kruh, Roberta Showalter Kreider, and Marcus Borg The six lessons in this non-denominational study are intended to extend the reach of the award-winning documentary on homosexuality and Christianity. Published by Northaven United Methodist Church, Dallas, Texas, a member of the Reconciling Ministries Network, the curriculum: Addresses the many fears that surround the issue. Offers perspective on how to interpret Scripture. Explores the Bible’s so-called “clobber” passages. Examines why prejudices have persisted in Christianity down through the centuries. Shares the testimony of a Christian who turned 180 degrees on the issue. Beckons Christians to examine the issue through the life and teachings of the ultimate authority, Jesus Christ. The downloadable curriculum is sold exclusively at www.thisiknowstudy.org. Visit the website for more information or email info@thisiknowstudy.org.