THE SECRET

Sexuality is the interrelationship of cultural, psychological, ethical and biological dimensions. All of us, from birth to death, are sexual beings and our sexuality is an integral part of who and what we are rather than what we do, manifesting itself either positively or negatively. Our sexuality encompasses sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as sexual behavior. These aspects, along with the role of GLBTA (Gays, Lesbians, Bisexuals, Transgenders, and Allies) in the church, is tearing apart our religious institutions at the seams. This, however, is a necessary process in order for the church to repair itself and evolve toward a healthier identity. As we embrace one of the most important tasks in life ... integrating our spiritual "soul selves" with our sexuality, we find our churches lacking in understanding. Organized religion has not had a history of supporting this integration, even for heterosexual people. The Bible, on the other hand, is very sex positive. Transforming ourselves, and affirming that our sexuality is a big part of who we are, is the key to changing the hearts and minds of society. When we accept ourselves, acceptance or the lack of acceptance from others will not have as big an impact.

Knowledge, highly valued in most areas of our lives, meets resistance in the area of sexuality, particularly within the church setting. The differences between various terminology and evaluation of how each of these impacts us as spiritual beings, inside as well as outside the church setting, will be defined

The goal of this workshop is to affirm our sexuality, gain knowledge and insight into the areas of sexual orientation and gender roles/identity, and simultaneously recognize and respect that our values are sacred. We will accomplish this through values clarification and assessment of three basic value systems, all of which have a theology, a looking for "meaning," underlying them.