The End of the Culture Wars? Reconciliation Between Conservative Christians and LGBT People

• In Event: 218 - Section on Sociology of Religion Paper Session. Beyond the Culture Wars: Broadening the Religion and Sexualities Conversation

Abstract

This paper presents findings from a qualitative study of the space of reconciliation opening up between Evangelical Christians and LGBT people. To many who are engaging in this space, even if they believe homosexuality is sinful, it no longer seems like the “one unforgivable sin,” and the Church needs to rethink its treatment of LGBT members and LGBTs in society. Drawing from participant-observation and qualitative interviews, this paper explores what demographic, interactional, social structural and cultural factors have made the creation of this space possible at this time in history. It argues, contrary to much “culture wars” scholarship, that this movement is not a slide towards religious liberalism or a shift toward seeing the individual as the source of moral authority. Furthermore, it shows how such reconciliation disrupts the toxic effects of sacramental shame as it fosters the emergence of gay Christian identities.

Author

• Dawne Moon, Marquette University