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Faith Autopsy Small Group Discussion Guides
Here are two different 7-week small group/book club discussion guides. The first one looks at the “Clobber Passages” chapters. The second looks at “Building a Positive Theological Framework & Ethic” for both affirming churches and LGBTQ+ people. Depending on your interests and needs, you may want to consider doing both over 14 weeks, or choosing →
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Faith Autopsy – Discussions Questions, Journaling Prompts & CBT Practices
from the Book Here are all the Group Discussion Questions, Journaling Prompts, abd CBT practices from the book together in one place. For listenability, these were omitted from the Audio edition. Download the PDF Version here. Intro – Faith Autopsy—what this is (and isn’t) (pp. 31–32) Group Discussion Journaling Prompts CBT / Healing Practice (4–8 →
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Sample Covenant Ethic Summary (for leaders, couples, singles, small groups)
Appendix N Applies to everyone—straight, gay, bi, trans, single, dating, engaged, married. Our goal is integrity, safety, and love that looks like Jesus. 1) Core Commitments 2) Wisdom > Line-Drawing (for sexual decision-making) Ask together (and with a trusted pastor/mentor as needed): Note on sex outside civil marriage: Scripture doesn’t offer a tidy proof-text that →
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Understanding the LGBTQ+ Alphabet (Quick Guide)
Appendix M Language evolves. When in doubt, ask people what words they use for themselves and follow their lead. LGBTQIA+An umbrella for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual/Aromantic—the “+” includes many others on the spectrum. Sex Assigned at Birth (SAAB)The label (female/male/intersex) noted on a birth record based on observed anatomy. It’s not the →
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Ten Tips for Preaching About LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Appendix L 1) Include us in your stories (always)Don’t only mention LGBTQ+ people when the sermon is “about” sexuality or gender. Let queer and trans people appear naturally in illustrations—friends, parents, volunteers, leaders, saints. 2) Don’t assume heteronormativityAudit your pronouns and defaults. Use inclusive language for families, marriages, and households. Avoid jokes that rely on →
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Ten Tips for Youth Leaders & Preachers
Appendix I →
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Resources for Young People
Appendix F • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org (24/7, free, confidential). • The Trevor Project (LGBTQ youth) — 24/7 phone 1‑866‑488‑7386; chat/text via their website. • Trans Lifeline — Peer‑run support line: U.S. 877‑565‑8860; Canada 877‑330‑6366. • National Domestic Violence Hotline — 800‑799‑SAFE (7233); thehotline.org for →
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Books to Read
Appendix C Core Affirming Works 1) Matthew Vines, God and the Gay Christian — A clear, accessible biblical case for affirming same‑sex marriage, focused on careful exegesis and conservative evangelical audiences. 2) Justin Lee, Torn — Memoir + practical bridge‑building from a devout evangelical who discovers he is gay; a great “starter” book for families →
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Pastoral Scenarios and Practiced Responses
Appendix B 1) Teen comes out to a leader: Thank them. Name their courage. Ask how safe they feel at home and school. Clarify confidentiality and mandated‑reporting limits. Offer to talk with parents when they’re ready. Follow‑up within 48 hours with one concrete next step (coffee, trusted mentor, small group). 2) Trans congregant requests name/pronouns: →