Local Bookstore to Host Discussion, Q&A on Gay Marriage
Baker Book House, the largest Christian bookstore in West Michigan, has invited two well-known spokesmen for the gay, Christian community to take part in a discussion and Q&A session on the topic of gay marriage in the church.
The Church & Homosexuality: A Model Dialogue takes place on Tuesday, Aug. 12, at 7 pm at the bookstore, 2768 East Paris Ave. in Grand Rapids. The event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required.
“We know the church is talking about this topic, and we want to provide a safe place to have a discussion about it,” said Louis McBride, event organizer and employee at Baker Book House. “Though we may vehemently disagree on whether gay marriage is allowed in the church, we can still have a dialogue without all the drama and heat.”
Speakers for the event are Justin Lee, executive director of the Gay Christian Network and author of “Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate,” and Wesley Hill, assistant professor at Trinity School for Ministry and author of “Washed and Waiting: Reflections on Christian Faithfulness and Homosexuality.”
Both men are gay and Christian. Lee espouses the view that the Bible says it’s acceptable to be gay and marry; Hill believes the Bible says it is wrong and is, therefore, living a life of celibacy.
Each will speak for 20 minutes on their views, then participate in a Q&A session during which they will field questions submitted in writing that evening or in advance via the Baker Book House Facebook page or at the store.
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“It’s important to have both sides addressed. We need to learn how to have a discussion with someone we disagree with,” said McBride. “This isn’t a debate, but a dialogue, and a dialogue can be civil, tempered and patient. We want to model how to have such conversations well.”
Sue Smith, manager at Baker Book House, sees an even bigger picture. Millennials, she said, are leaving the church and, in turn, millennials are leaving our stores. This issue is a pertinent example of why that is happening.
“On the issue of homosexuality, we have a growing number of Christians that land in various places biblically,” she said. “As a church, we don’t know how to have a healthy conversation with a member of the gay community. We quote Scripture, argue, debate and cast blame. We don’t know how to be Jesus to them or each other.
“I’m hoping these gentlemen can help us. How can the church show the gay community grace? How does the gay community show the church grace? Can we grow and learn from each other?” said Smith.
Call Baker Book House at 616-957-3110 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to reserve tickets, and look for more information on the Baker Book House Facebook page. Questions may be submitted via the Facebook page, email, or in the store. Both participants’ books will be for sale during the event.
The Facts:
The Church & Homosexuality: A Model Dialogue
When: 7 pm Tuesday, Aug. 12
Where: Baker Book House, 2768 East Paris Ave., Grand Rapids
Details: Tickets required for free event
Contact: 616-957-3110, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., Baker Book House Facebook page
