This much-needed collection of worship services, ceremonies, and celebrations is attuned to the unique needs of sexual minorities. The rites, written primarily by lesbians and gay men, include liturgies of spiritual beginnings, healing, blessings, holy communion, and pride and empowerment. Also included are funeral and memorial services, seasonal and holiday rites, and covenant rites for couples. More than a collection, Equal Rites is also a reference book for creating unique and meaningful worship services that address significant aspects of lesbian and gay spirituality.

 

 

Well-known Christian gay activist Glaser (Uncommon Calling, John Knox, 1996) asserts that the Christian Scriptures themselves defend the self-affirmation of gays and lesbians in the Church and provide pertinent examples of courage and openness toward outcasts from the lives and teachings of Moses, Jesus, the Psalmist, and others. He also provides seven sample rituals of commitment and celebration (not including, it should be noted, marriage) for the Church's rejected children. Likely to become indispensable for gay and lesbian Christians, Glaser's book will be widely discussed.

 

While it occurs near the close of the calendar year, Advent marks the commencement of the liturgical one, beginning the Christian calendar afresh with its weeks of hushed expectation. In Reformation of the Heart: Seasonal Meditations of a Gay Christian, Chris Glaser challenges readers to emulate Mary, who prayed, "Let it be with me according to your Word." Glaser's honest daily meditations will help many gay and lesbian Christians understand the Advent season (and other liturgical events) in fresh and comforting ways.