Amazon reader review: Gay Theology Without Apology," Gary David Comstock has made an outstanding contribution to the growing body of "gay-friendly" Christian literature. An ordained minister of the United Church of Christ and a university professor, Comstock brings both sensitivity and intelligence to his subject. Ultimately, his is a forward-thinking and inclusive Christian theology which affirms that gay love and sexuality are not only compatible with the Christian walk, but that the Christian community as a whole is impoverished by the exclusion of self-affirming lesbians and gay men.

Comstock incorporates both revealing autobiographical passages and incisive scholarly work into his explorations of several biblical texts. He also has an admirable sense of humility; in his introduction he notes that he does not claim to have constructed a definitive pro-gay Christian theology. Rather, he writes, "My intention is not to speak for others, but to add my voice to others' and to encourage others to speak."

Comstock's readings of biblical passages are fascinating. I particularly liked his bold re-reading of the book of Leviticus; unlike some who selectively harp on a scattered handful of verses, Comstock looks at the entire book in larger political, historical, and cultural contexts. Also remarkable is his analysis of the book of Esther: he sees in the character of Queen Vashti a "role model for lesbians and gay men."

In his explorations of the Bible, Comstock incorporates quotes and ideas from many sources: poet Gary Snyder, literary scholar Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick, African-American writer Audre Lorde, and more. Although he is open to other voices, his own vision is strong and compelling. He is particularly adept at taking cliches and assumptions and turning them upside down.

Gary David Comstock is a gay Christian whose work is relevant to all moral people, regardless of their own sexual identity or religious orientation. Regarding the Bible, Comstock writes, "I have begun to engage it as I would a friend" (Chapter 1). Engage Comstock's own book as you would a friend, and you might come away with an experience that is both intellectually and spiritually rewarding.

Comstock (Gay Theology Without Apology, Pilgrim Pr., 1993) here combines recent studies of gay people in organized religion with his own research of gays and lesbians in the church. Making up for gaps in the studies he reviewed, he provides an overview of the religious life of the gay laity rather than the church's view on homosexuality. His research covers all religions, including alternative and Native American religions, with an emphasis on the United Methodist Church (UMC) and the United Church of Christ (UCC). To facilitate readability, interviews complement the empirical data. Some conclusions based on the data state that the UMC is more accepting of mature gay persons who are devoted to changing the UMC anti-gay policy, while the UCC is devoted to social issues and invites member participation in church leadership. Comstock's focus is the hope that all people can worship equally. A historical overview and chronology listing significant gay-related events is provided.

 

The interviews with African American religious leaders that make up this book amount to a conversation of interest to those concerned with the church as a welcoming community as well as those interested in current discussion of various denominations' stances regarding gay and lesbian members. Comstock is clear and persuasive as the central voice in the book, yet his primary role is that of listener, and he plays it brilliantly. Thus we clearly hear a who's who of African American leaders from a variety of denominations addressing how to welcome lesbians and gay men into African American congregations. We also witness a dialogue in which communities of individuals often excluded by portions of Christianity that fancy themselves to be "mainstream" draw on experience to teach each other about being welcoming communities. These conversations have much to teach all the churches. Open-hearted readers stand to be touched and possibly changed.