Each day leading up to the announcement of the Minnesota Book Awards, we highlight one of the thirty-two finalists. Today we feature 2015 General Nonfiction finalist R.W. Holmen.
A Journey Toward Acceptance
Queer Clergy: A History of Gay and Lesbian Ministry in American Protestantism by R.W. Holmen
Published by: The Pilgrim Press
Category sponsored by Minnesota AFL-CIO
R.W. Holmen’s comprehensive volume presents a history of gay and lesbian ministry and the pioneers who have played key roles in their increasing acceptance in Protestant churches. Holmen examines five major Protestant denominations (United Methodist Church, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Presbyterian Church, Episcopal Church, and United Church of Christ) and their part in the efforts made toward welcoming the LGBTQ community into Christian churches. Holmen details these efforts and profiles some of the brave individuals who fought for equality, including Bill Johnson, who in 1972 became the first openly gay member of clergy, and Anita Hill, one of the first lesbian pastors to be ordained by the ELCA. Holmen writes with much enthusiasm for the topic, both lauding the progress that has been made, and calling for the continuation of efforts where acceptance is still lacking.
About the Author:
R.W. Holmen is a novelist and former civil trial attorney. He is also the author of Gonna Stick My Sword in the Golden Sand: A Vietnam Soldier’s Story and A Wretched Man, a novel of Paul the apostle. Visit his website: www.theliberalspirit.com.
Listen to R.W. Holmen speak about his book on the Religion For Life podcast
Join us at the Awards Gala!
Award winners will be announced at the 27th Annual Minnesota Book Awards Gala on Saturday, April 18—only a week away!—at the historic St. Paul Union Depot. The opening reception begins at 7 p.m., followed by the awards ceremony at 8 p.m. Tickets are $50 and are available by visiting www.thefriends.org/gala.
Have you read Queer Clergy? What are your thoughts? We welcome your comments!