Annotated Bibliography: Religion, Spirituality, and Sexuality

Religion can play a significant role in promoting an understanding of sexuality as an affirming expression of equality, mutual respect, caring, and love. Religious groups and spiritual leaders can become more involved in sexuality education and in promoting the sexual health of their constituents, including those who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, young, elderly, ill, or with physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities.

This bibliography is designed to provide information that they-as well as parents, educators and the general public-can use to better understand the positive relationship between religion, sexuality, and spirituality.

SIECUS does not sell or distribute publications not developed and published by SIECUS itself. They are however, available for use in the Mary S. Calderone Library. For those interested in purchasing any of the following books, each annotation contains contact and price information.

SIECUS is located at 130 West 42nd Street, Suite 350, New York, NY 10036-7802; Phone: 212/819-9770; Fax: 212/819-9776; E-mail: siecus@siecus.org

(Published in the SIECUS Report, Volume 28, Number 4 - April/May 2000)

Body Theology
James B. Nelson
A thoughtful look at the separation of body and spirit that prevails in the traditions of some churches, this book emphasizes the importance of the body and sexuality to the human relationship with God. It focuses on three areas of concern: sexual theology, men's issues, and biomedical ethics.
1992; $19.95; ISBN 0-664-25379-2; Westminster John Knox Press, A Division of Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202-1396; Phone: 800/227-2872; Fax: 800/541-5113; Web site: http://www.ppcpub.org/ 

Buddhism, Sexuality, and Gender
Jose Ignacio Cabezón, Editor
This book explores diverse social questions as they relate to sexual orientation and feminism in the Buddhist world. Four main topics include: Buddhist history, contemporary culture, Buddhist symbols, and homosexuality. The contributors explore these issues within different historical contexts from the beginning of Buddhism to the present era. Other issues include abortion and the role of women in the Buddhist culture.
1992; $21.95; ISBN 0-7914-0758-6; State University of New York Press, c/o CUP Services, P. O. Box 6525, Ithaca, NY 14851; Phone: 800/666-2211; Fax: 800/688-2877; Web site: http://www.cornellpress.cornell.edu/ 

The Burden of the Flesh: Fasting and Sexuality in Early Christianity
Teresa M. Shaw
This book discusses early Christian notions of the body-diet, sexuality, the passions, and the ideal of virginity-and sheds light on the growth of Christian ideals that remain powerful cultural forces today.
2000; $27; ISBN 0-8006-2765-2; Augsburg Fortress Publishers, P.O. Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440; Phone: 800/328-4648; Fax: 800/722-7766; Web site: http://www.augsburgfortress.org 

Carnal Israel: Reading Sex in Talmudic Culture
Daniel Boyarin
Endorsing the rabbinic Jewish belief that the human body was animated by the soul, the author argues that rabbinic Judaism does not allow for a separation of spirit and body. Human sexuality in the Jewish faith is a marriage of body and soul. The book includes a general index, an index of primary Jewish texts, and a bibliography.
1993; $16.95; ISBN 0-520-20336-4; California/Princeton Press Fulfillment Services, P. O. Box 7780-4721, Philadelphia, PA 19182-4721; Phone: 800/822-6657; Fax: 800/999-1958; Web site: http://www.ucpress.edu/ 

Christianity and Sexuality in the Early Modern World: Regulating Desire, Reforming Practice
Merry E. Weiser-Hanks
This book examines the ways in which Christian ideas and institutions shaped both sexual norms and conduct from the time of Luther and Columbus to that of Thomas Jefferson. It is global in scope and geographic in organization as it addresses many aspects of sexuality.
2000; $22.99; ISBN 0-415-14434-5; Routledge, 7625 Empire Drive, Florence, KY 41022; Phone: 800/634-7064; Fax: 800/248-4724; Web site: http://www.routledge-ny.com 

Curriculum, Religion, and Public Education: Conversations For An Enlarging Public Square
James T. Sears and James C. Carper, Editors
This volume explores five curriculum subjects that have been “ground zero” in community debates-science and human evolution, textbook selection, sexuality education, character development, and outcome-based education.
1998; $29.95; ISBN 0-8077-3706-2; Teachers College Press, P.O. Box 20, Williston, VT 05495; Phone: 800/575-6566; Fax: 802/864-7626; Web site: http://www.teacherscollegepress.com/ 

The Good Book: Reading the Bible with Mind and Heart
Peter J. Gomes
This book is for those who are eager to reintroduce themselves to the Bible, who are looking for timeless wisdom and comfort, who want to reconcile what they know of the Bible with what they know of themselves and the world, and who want to reclaim the responsibility of biblical interpretation from those who would use the Bible for division and exclusion. It discusses the Bible and race, anti-semitism, women, and sexual orientation.
1998; $13; ISBN 0-380723239; HarperCollins Publishers, 1000 Keystone Industrial Park, Scranton, PA 18512; Phone: 800/843-9389; Fax: 800/822-4090; Web site: http://www.harpercollins.com 

Heavenly Sex: Sexuality in the Jewish Tradition
Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer and Jonathan Mark
This book explores sexuality in the context of Jewish religion and culture. It makes a connection between sexuality, spirituality, and sexual roles as it examines the books of the Bible. Appendices are titled "Legal Codification" and "A Biblical Glossary."
1995; $25; ISBN 0-8147-9268-5; New York University Press, 838 Broadway, New York, NY 10003; Phone: 800/996-6987; Fax: 212/995-3833; Web site: http://www.nyupress.nyu.edu/ 

The Holy Letter: A Study in Jewish Sexual Morality
Seymour J. Cohen
Translated from a thirteenth century Hebrew text, Iggeret ha-Kodesh, this book looks at the spiritual insights of Jewish thought. It serves as both a guide for the marital relationship as well as a kabbalistic work illustrating God's relationship to people. Chapters include "The Nature of Intercourse," "The Time of Intercourse," and "The Intention of Union."
1994; $30; ISBN 1-56821-086-8; Jason Aronson Inc., P. O. Box 1539, Fort Lee, NJ 07024; Phone: 800/782-0015; Fax: 201/840-7242; Web site: http://www.aronson.com/ 

Nine Tips To Help Faith Leaders and Their Communities Address Teen Pregnancy
The National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy
This resource includes nine tips on how to address teen pregnancy issues. It summarizes the experiences and advice of faith leaders around the country. It also includes a resource list of faith-based resources.
1998; Free; The National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, 2100 M Street, N.W., Suite 300, Washington, DC 20037; Phone: 202/261-5655; Fax: 202/331-7735; Web site: http://www.teenpregnancy.org/ 

Politics, Gender, and the Islamic Past: The Legacy of 'A'isha bint Abi Bakr
D. A. Spellberg
This study of 'A'isha bint Abi Bakr, the wife of the Prophet Muhommad, examines the validity of patriarchal interpretations of her life developed by medieval male historians. The book focuses on the correlation between 'A'isha, the historical figure, and the identity of the Islamic people, specifically Muslim women.
1996; $18.50; ISBN 0-231-07999-0; Columbia University Press, 136 South Broadway, Irvington, NY 10533; Phone: 800/944-8648; Fax: 800/944-1844; Web site: http://www.columbia.edu/cu/cup 

Religious Declaration on Sexual Morality, Justice, and Healing
This declaration, which is suitable for display in faith-based institutions, was developed by religious leaders to affirm a progressive religious view on sexuality issues.
2000; $5; SIECUS, Publications Department, 130 West 42nd Street, Suite 350, New York, NY 10036-7802; Phone: 212/819-9770; Fax: 212/819-9776; E-mail: siecus@siecus.org 

Sexual Morality In the World's Religions
Geoffrey Parrinder
This book explores sexual morality within the historical and contemporary framework of today's predominant world religions. Chapters include "Sacred Sex In India," "Buddhist Renunciation," "Chinese Yin and Yang," "Traditional Africa," "Islamic Customs," "Hebrew Affirmations," "Christian Diversity," "Baha'i Ideals," and "Modern Influences."
1996; $14.95; ISBN 1-85168-108-6; Penguin Putnam Inc., P. O. Box 12289, Newark, NJ 07101; Phone: 800/253-6476; Web site: http://www.penguinputnam.com 

Sexuality: A Reader
Karen Lebacqz with David Sinacore-Guinn, Editors
This anthology of essays weaves together different dimensions of sexuality from religious perspectives. Authors include John D’Emilio, James B. Nelson, Leonore Tiefer, and Naomi Wolf. The book is a college-level publication intended to be read as a whole text.
1999; $26.95; ISBN 0-8298-1210-5; The Pilgrim Press, 230 Sheldon Road, Berea, OH 44017; Phone: 800/537-3394; Fax: 216/736-3713; Web site: http://www.pilgrimpress.com/ 

Sexuality and Catholicism
Thomas C. Fox
This volume addresses the theme of sexuality and sin in the Roman Catholic Church. Chapters range from discussions on birth control and abortion to feminism and morality. The author considers several papal encyclicals and their impact on the church’s treatment of these issues.
2000; $15.95; ISBN 0807614688; W. W. Norton, 800 Keystone Industrial Park, Scranton, PA 18512; Phone: 800/233-4830; Fax: 800/458-6515; Web site: http://www.wwnorton.com/ 

Sexuality and Christianity: A Bibliography Focusing on the Catholic Experience
Lisa M. Hisel
This bibliography includes both Catholic and Christian voices in a discussion of sexuality.
1998; $5; Catholics For A Free Choice, 1436 U Street, N.W., Suite 301, Washington, DC 20009-3997; Phone: 202/986-6093; Fax: 202/332-7995; Web site: http://www.cath4choice.org/ 

Sexuality and the Black Church: Womanist Perspective
Kelly Brown Douglas
This book addresses why sexuality has been a “taboo” subject for the Black church and community. It helps to promote theological discourse that positively affects attitudes and behaviors regarding sexuality.
1999; $14; ISBN 1-57075-242-7;Orbis Books, P. O. Box 302, Maryknoll, NY 10545; Phone: 800/258-5838; Fax: 914/941-7005; Web site: http://orbisbooks.com 

Sexuality and the Sacred: Sources for Theological Reflection
James B. Nelson and Sandra P. Longfellow, Editors
This book of essays discusses the foundations and meanings of human sexuality. It then explores the relationship between sexuality and spirituality. Contributing authors include Carter Heyward, Lisa Sowle Cahill, L. William Countryman, Margaret Farley, and Audre Lorde.
1994; $29.95; ISBN 0-664-25529-9; Westminster John Knox Press, A Division of Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville KY 40202-1396; Phone: 800/227-2872; Fax: 800/541-5113; Web site: http://www.ppcpub.org 

The Sexuality of Jesus
William E. Phipps
An examination of the sexual identity of Jesus, this book analyzes Western interpretations of Jesus' life and teachings. It suggests that Jesus promoted positive attitudes toward women, sexuality, and marriage. It also looks at the ways in which the Jesus of the Gospels is relevant to current discussions about sexuality and gender.
1996; $16.95; ISBN 0-8298-1144-3; The Pilgrim Press, 230 Sheldon Road, Berea, OH 44017; Phone: 800/537-3394; Fax: 216/736-3713; Web site: http://www.pilgrimpress.com/ 

Survivor Prayers: Talking with God About Childhood Sexual Abuse
Catherine J. Foote
Written for survivors of sexual abuse, this book explores the effect that the abuse has on people’s relationship with God. The author offers prayers and meditations to help people heal.
1994; $12.95; ISBN 0-664-25435-7; Westminster John Knox Press, A Division of Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202-1396; Phone: 800/227-2872; Fax: 800/541-5113; Web site: http://www.ppcpub.org/ 

A Time to Speak: Faith Communities and Sexuality Education
Debra W. Haffner
This is a guide for faith communities on providing sexuality education, promoting sexual health, and advocating better programs.
1999; $12.95; SIECUS, Publications Department, 130 West 42nd Street, Suite 350, New York, NY 10036-7802; Phone: 212/819-9770; Fax: 212/819-9776; E-mail: siecus@siecus.org 

Wrestling with Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality, and Personal Relationships
Naomi H. Rosenblatt and Joshua Horwitz
A retelling of the ancient stories of Genesis, this book presents the Bible as a collection of lessons relevant to modern generations. Its primary goal is to narrate the story of Genesis to an audience that is largely unfamiliar with the Bible. It discusses the Biblical treatment of such issues as spiritual identity, human responsibility, human purpose, gender roles, sexuality, and family.
1997; $12.95; ISBN 0-385-31333-0; Distribution Services, Bantam Doubleday Dell, 2451 South Wolf Road, Des Plaines, IL 60018; 800/323-9872; Fax: 800/659-2436; Web site: http://www.randomhouse.com/ 

The Yetzer: A Kabbalistic Perspective on Eroticism and Human Sexuality  
Mordechai Rotenberg
This book delineates the interdependence between sexual desire and spiritual creativity as well as the integration between the concepts as they are defined by Jewish mysticism and modern psychology. Chapters include: “Creation and Procreation,” “The ‘Yetzer’ as Creative Neurosis,” “Ecstasy and Spiritual Sexuality,” and “The “Yetzer” in the Socio-psychological Therapy Room.”
1997; $40; ISBN: 1-56821-898-2; Jason Aronson, Inc., P. O. Biox 1539, Fort Lee,NJ 07024; Fax: 201/840-7242; Web site: www.aronson.com 

Arguing About Sex: The Rhetoric of Christian Sexual Morality
Joseph Monti
This book analyzes the Christian church's position on sexuality and ethics and builds a comprehensive argument about sexual ethics in late modernity. It includes a bibliography, index, and notes.
1995; $19.95; ISBN 0-7914-2480-4; State University of New York Press, c/o CUP Services, P. O. Box 6525, Ithaca, NY 14851; Phone: 800/666-2211; Fax: 800/688-2877; Web site: http://www.corenellpress.cornell.edu/ 

Body, Sex, and Pleasure: Reconstructing Christian Sexual Ethics
Christine E. Gudorf
Drawing on historical and contemporary Christian theology, social sciences, scripture, and natural law, this book proposes a reevaluation of traditional Christian sexual ethics. It focuses on such issues as sexual roles, procreationism, spirituality, and body image.
1995; $15.95; ISBN 0-8298-1062-5; The Pilgrim Press, 230 Sheldon Road, Berea, OH 44017; Phone: 800/537-3394; Fax: 216/736-3713; Web site: http://www.pilgrimpress.com 

Erotic Justice: A Liberating Ethic of Sexuality
Marvin M. Ellison
This book explores love as a metaphor for justice. The author calls for a liberation of moral discourse and encourages a merger of erotic desire and the search for social justice.
1996; $19.95; ISBN 0-664-25646-5; Westminster John Knox Press, A Division of Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville KY 40202-1396; Phone: 800/227-2872; Fax: 800/541-5113; Web site: http://www.ppcpub.org 

Finding Your Way: A Book About Sexual Ethics
Susan Neiburg Terkel
This book is intended for adolescents. In it, the author explains the importance of making educated decisions about sexual behavior and of compassionately and sensitively appreciating others' sexual standards. The author presents examples and scenarios on sexual intercourse, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy, and religious ideas about sexuality.
1995; $25; ISBN 0-531-11234-9; Franklin Watts, A Division of Grolier Publishing, Sherman Turnpike, Danbury, CT 06816; Phone: 800/621-1115, extension 2660; Fax: 203-797-3657; Web site: http://www.publishing.grolier.com 

Living in Sin: A Bishop Rethinks Human Sexuality
John Shelby Spong
Raising questions about the traditional tenets of the Episcopal church regarding sexuality, this book discusses alternatives to a fear-based approach to sexuality education. It calls for inclusive teachings and encourages healthy, nonexploitative relationships. Issues include divorce, celibacy, homosexuality, and feminism.
1990; $16; ISBN 0-06-067507-1; HarperCollins Publishers, P. O. Box 588, Scranton, PA 18512; Phone: 800/331-3761; Fax: 800/822-4090; Web site: http://www.harpercollins.com 

Love Does No Harm: Sexual Ethics for the Rest of Us
Marie M. Fortune
With a foreword by former U.S. Surgeon General M. Jocelyn Elders, M.D., this book is a comprehensive guide to ethical sexual decision-making for people of all ages.
1998; $12.95; ISBN 0-8264-1128-2; Continuum International, P. O. Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172; Phone: 800/561-7704; Fax: 703/661-1501; Web site: http://www.continuum-books.com/ 

Sex in the Parish
Karen Lebacqz and Ronald G. Barton
This book explores the sexual dynamics between pastor and parishioner in an ethical context. Topics include the pastoral role in the church; women in ministry; gay, lesbian, and bisexual pastors; and appropriate limits between pastor and parishioner. It offers a wide-ranging ethical debate on issues of sexuality in faith-based communities.
1991; $24.95; ISBN 0-664-25087-4; Westminster John Knox Press, A Division of Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202-1396; Phone: 800/227-2872; Fax: 800/541-5113; Web site: http://www.ppcpub.org 

Biblical Ethics & Homosexuality: Listening to Scripture
Robert L. Brawley, Editor
These essays were written in response to the recommendations of the General Assembly of the United Presbyterian Church, U.S.A., on discussing sexuality and sexual orientation. The essays encourage readers to relate the Bible to contemporary society and to use it to persuade others to appreciate diverse perspectives on sexuality.
1996; $19.95; ISBN 0-664-25638-4; Westminster John Knox Press, A Division of Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202-1396; Phone: 800/227-2872; Fax: 800/541-5113; Web site: http://www.ppcpub.org/ 

Building Bridges: Gay and Lesbian Reality and the Catholic Church
Robert Nugent and Jeannine Gramick
The authors of this book examine issues related to sexual orientation from four perspectives: educational and social concerns; counseling and pastoral issues; religious and clerical life; and evolving theological perspectives. The main theme is respect and dignity for gays and lesbians in society and in the Catholic Church.
1992; $12.95; ISBN 0-89622-503-8; Twenty-Third Publications, 185 Willow Street, Mystic, CT 06355; Phone: 800/321-0411; Fax: 800/572-0788.

Coming Out As Parents: You and Your Homosexual Child
David K. Switzer
Written for Christian parents of gay, lesbian, or bisexual children, this book will also help these children understand their parents’ struggle. The author clarifies the meaning of gay, lesbian, and bisexuality and helps parents understand their feelings and reactions toward their gay, lesbian, or bisexual children. He also explores recent scientific, social, and Biblical aspects surrounding these issues.
1996; $15.95; ISBN 0-664-25636-8; Westminster John Knox Press, A Division of Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202-1396; Phone: 800/227-2872; Fax: 800/541-5113; Web site: http://www.ppcpub.org/ 

Finishing the Journey: Questions and Answers From the United Methodists of Conviction
John Thornburg and Alicia Dean, Editors
This book contains 15 essays by United Methodists—some of whom are the most respected voices in the church—asking parishioners to open their minds and join gays and lesbians as they seek liberation from persecution.  Essays include: "Why Should We Care About This Issue?," "When Should Our Christian Conscience Overrule the Order of the Church,?" "Why Should the Church Allow Ordination of Gay Men and Lesbians?," and "How Can the Church Health on This Issue?"
2000, #3; ISBN: 0-96769181-0-X; Northaven United Methodist Church, Preston Road, Dallas, TX, 75230-3457; Phone: 214-363-2479; Fax: 214-373-3972; Web site: http://www.northaven.org 

Freedom, Glorious Freedom: The Spiritual Journey to the Fullness of Life for Gays, Lesbians, and Everybody Else
John J. McNeill
This book is devoted to the achievement of spiritual maturity and self-acceptance. Issues include freedom of conscience, coming out, and intimate relationships.
1995; $16; ISBN 0-8070-7937-5; Houghton Mifflin, 181 Ballardvale Street, Wilmington, MA 01887; Phone: 800/225-3362; Fax: 800/634-7568; Web site: http://www.hmco.com/ 

Homosexuality and Christian Community
Choon - Leong Seow, Editor
This book, written by members of the Princeton Theological Seminary faculty, addresses the diverse explicative, interpretive, and pragmatic issues relating to homosexuality in the church. The essays represent different viewpoints and are divided into three parts: "What Do the Scriptures Say?," "How Do the Scriptures Inform Our Theological Reflection?," and "How Do We Live Faithfully?"
1996; $17.95; ISBN 0-664-25664-3; Westminster John Knox Press, A Division of Presbyterian Publishing Corporation, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202-1396; Phone: 800/227-2872; Fax: 800/541-5113; Web site: http://www.ppcpub.org/ 

Our Selves, Our Souls & Bodies: Sexuality and the Household of God
Charles Hefling, Editor
This collection of essays addresses the church’s current debate on sexual orientation. Titles include “Finding a Way to Talk: Dealing with Difficult Topics in the Episcopal Church,” “Intimate Listening: Paying Attention to the Religious Experience of Gay and Lesbian People,” “Christian Marriage and Homosexual Monogamy,” and “Lesbian and Gay Christians and the Gay-Friendly Church.”
1996; $12.95; ISBN 1-56101-122-3; Phone: 800/225-1534; Fax: 617/423-2354; Cowley Publications, 28 Temple Place, Boston, MA 02111; Web site: http://www.cowley.org 

Though I Stand at the Door And Knock:
Discussions on the Black Church’s Struggle with Homosexuality and AIDS
Julia Walker, Editor
This publication is intended to encourage churches and individuals to discuss sexual orientation and AIDS. Essays include “Homosexuality and the African American Church: The Paradox of the :Open Closet,” “The Black Church Beyond Homophobia,” “Good News for Homosexuals,” and “A Message to Black Clergy.”
1997; $5; The Balm in Gilead, Inc., 130 West 42nd Street, Suite 450, New York, NY 10036; Phone: 212/730-7381; Fax: 212/730-2551; Web site: http://www.balmingilead.org 

Unrepentant, Self-Affirming, Practicing Lesbian/Bisexual/Gay People within Organized Religion  
Gary David Comstock
This book is based primarily on empirical studies of gay people in organized religion. It discusses the experience of gay, lesbian, and bisexual people in their churches, mosques, and synagogues. It asks where they belong, what they do, how they feel, and what they think about their religious communities.
1996; $29.95; ISBN 0-8264-0881-8; Continuum International, P. O. Box 605, Herndon, VA 20172; Phone: 800/561-7704; Fax: 703/661-1501; Web site: http://www.continuum-books.com/ 

AIDS National Interfaith Network
This organization links people of faith, mobilizes religious leadership, promotes quality pastoral care, and fosters compassionate, nonjudgmental services to and on behalf of people with or affected by AIDS.

1400 I Street, N.W., Suite 1220
Washington, DC 20005
Phone: 202/842-0010
Fax: 202/842-3323
Web site: http://www.thebody.com/ 

The Balm in Gilead
This organization works with black churches to prevent HIV/AIDS in the African American community and to provide support to those infected and or affected with HIV/AIDS. It also provides training, networking, and education on HIV/AIDS and black communities.

130 West 42nd Street, Suite 450
New York, NY 10036
Phone: 212/730-7381
888/225-6243
Fax: 212/730-2551
Web site: http://www.balmingilead.org/ 

Carpenter Program in Religion, Gender, and Sexuality
This Vanderbilt University Divinity School program’s mission is to encourage conversations on religion, gender, and sexuality through religious, ideological, and cultural contexts.

235 Divinity School
Nashville, TN 37240
Phone: 615/343-3974
Fax: 615/343-9957
Web site: http://divinity.lib.vanderbilt.edu/carpenter 

Catholics for a Free Choice
This social justice organization shapes and advances sexual and reproductive ethics based on justice, a commitment to women's well-being, and respect for the moral capacity of women and men to make sound decisions about their lives. It also provides discourse, education, and advocacy to infuse these values into public policy, community life, and Catholic social thinking and teaching.

1436 U Street, N.W., Suite 301
Washington, DC 20009-3997
Phone: 202/986-6093
Fax: 202/332-7995
Web site: http://www.cath4choice.org 

Center for the Prevention of Sexual and Domestic Violence
This organization is a ministry that encourages education and prevention measures to stop sexual and domestic violence. It engages religious leaders to serve as a bridge between religious and secular communities to end such violence.

Center for Sexuality And Religion
This organization provides a forum for international and intercultural dialogue to help health care professionals understand the significance of religious beliefs and practices on sexual health, to foster the competence and integrity of religious leaders in matters of sexuality, to advance religious understandings and practices that are sexually positive, and to promote sexual health and justice for all persons.

Common Ground Network for Life and Choice
The purpose of this project is to help people on both sides of the abortion issue understand each other and talk with each other in a nonadversarial manner.

Dignity/USA
This is a national organization of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered Catholics, their families and friends. It works to promote spiritual development, social reform, and feminist issues. Its National AIDS Project provides referrals, advocacy, spiritual companionship, and healing services for Catholics with HIV/AIDS.

Interfaith Sexual Trauma Institute (ISTI)
This institute promotes the prevention of sexual abuse, exploitation, and harassment through research, education, and publications. It offers leadership, gives voice, and facilitates healing to survivors, communities of faith, and offenders as well as to those who care for them.

Interfaith Working Group
This group's mission is to inform the public of the diversity of religious opinion on social issues by providing a voice and a forum for religious organizations, congregations, and clergy that support gay rights, reproductive freedom, and the separation of church and state. Its Web site has information on "Religious Opinion on Social Issues."

Pro-Choice Religious Network
This network is the outgrowth of a national grassroots movement among those who believe that there is a theological and a spiritual basis for reproductive freedom and who want to show that religious political extremists do not speak for all religions or all religious Americans.

Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice
This coalition is designed to ensure that every woman is free to make decisions about having children based on her own conscience and religious beliefs, and without government interference.

Religious Consultation on Population, Reproductive Health and Ethics
This is an international multifaith organization of scholars who address issues of population, consumption, ecology, and reproductive health. The Consultation recognizes the motivational power of religion and seeks to influence scholarship, policymaking, and popular opinion in appropriate and effective ways.

SIECUS affirms that sexuality is a fundamental part of being human, one that is worthy of dignity and respect. We advocate for the right of all people to accurate information, comprehensive education about sexuality, and sexual health services. SIECUS works to create a world that ensures social justice and sexual rights.

Women's Alliance for Theology, Ethics, and Ritual (WATER)
This is a feminist educational center that responds to the need for theological, ethical, and liturgical development for and by women.

Working Group on Family Ministries and Human Sexuality
This group of over 20 denominations and a dozen family serving organizations raises consciousness in the churches and in society on a variety of sexuality issues. In addition, it develops and sells resources relating to marriage and parenting, intergenerational education, and sexuality and social justice for families. 

Office of Family Ministries in Human Sexuality
National Council of Churches
475 Riverside Drive, Room 848
New York, NY 10115-0050
Phone: 212/870-2673
Fax: 212/870-2030
Web site: http://www.ncccusa.org 

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