Trans-Gender : Theology, Ministry, and Communities of Faith

'Rev. Dr. Justin Sabia-Tanis is a creative queer theologian and activist with a wealth of pastoral experience. His classic, Transgendered--Theology, Ministry and Communities of Faith, is now available again for faith communities and university students struggling to include trans-people. It is a primer for understanding the spiritual journeys of transgendered people, examining the biblical support for inclusion, and provides faith communities guidelines for hospitality. His notion of'gender as a calling'is a creative theological proposal for all of us to recognize our own gender calling and the diverse callings of the marginalized. Sabia-Tanis imaginatively uses the image of twilight space of dawn and dusk, in-between space occupied by trans-people. His theology impacted my own commitment to transgendered rights and inclusion. At this time of conservative religious targeting the advances of trans-gendered people, we need the prophetic theological voice of Justin Sabia-Tanis'compassionate inclusion.'--Rev. Dr. Robert E. Shore-Goss Queer Theologian and author of Jesus Acted Up'Justin gives tremendous insight into life at the intersection of gender identity and faith. As a transgender Latina religious leader and psychotherapist, I have referenced Justin's book in workshops and discussion groups to help allies and advocates of the transgender community to understand and promote acceptance of the transgender community. Justin's book is a must-read for clergy who want to integrate transgender community members in to their congregations.'--Nicole M. Garcia, MDiv, MA LPC'Transgendered: Theology Ministry and Communities of Faith remains a trailblazing work in the exploration of transgender identities, gender variance and Scripture, and responses of exclusion and inclusion conveyed by communities of faith. Dr. Sabia-Tanis'wide-ranging research and candid conversations about transgender persons seeking faithful spiritual identity provides a helpful framework for transgender people; and for families, friends, and communities who want to support us. Outlining explicit and implicit barriers to participation, Sabia-Tanis challenges faith communities to offer genuine hospitality and welcome to transgender and gender non-conforming people, offering several ways to extend such welcome, including liturgical resources created specifically for the transgender community. This text continues to be a valuable resource for my parish ministry, pastoral care, professional writing, and personal reflection. I am grateful to see it back in print.'--Rev. Dr. David Weekley