What We Wish We Had Known

This resource discusses sexual orientation and gender identity—issues that can be delicate and emotionally charged for many families and that are too often surrounded by silence and confusion. Written in a Question-and-Answer format and with extensive references, the book covers scientific, social, family and theological perspectives. It draws on the insights of recognized experts in multiple fields, including history, sociology, law, medicine, psychology, anthropology, human and civil rights, and Biblical studies. Its purpose is to educate, to reduce fear and estrangement within families, and to help in the healing of broken relationships. There has been an extraordinary response to the book, which was first published in the Spring of 2000. As of September 2015, the congregation publishing the book has received requests for—and distributed—over 21,000 hard copies to individuals, families, professionals and organizations throughout the United States and internationally. Groups requesting the resource represent a broad diversity of faith traditions, as well as secular organizations. Many hundreds of readers have written to the church over the years, sharing with the congregation how the resource has impacted their lives. One of the very first responses was a simple, hand-written letter from central Florida: “Thank you! A copy has helped prevent a teenage suicide and helped us heal family relationships.” The Spanish and Russian translations of the e-book will also become available in the Fall of 2015.