United Methodist Church

African American United Methodist clergy - who are also longtime civil-rights advocates - say there are parallels between the struggles of blacks in the 1960's and those of gays and lesbians working for full inclusion in the church today.

The Free Press, in Mankato MN, is reporting on the incredible public response to the documentary For The Bible Tells Me So.

The film focuses on the debate about gays-in-the-church. And many pro-gay veterans of theological discussions give their positions on the subject throughout the documentary.

Former House majority leader Dick Gephardt and his daughter, Chrissy Gephardt appear together in the film.

Think Progress recently frightened its readers with the reality of 43rd's withering clout by reminding us about his Surgeon General nominee James Holsinger.

Holsinger appeared before the Senate health committee on July 12, to defend his controversial positions on homosexuality.

TV and film producer Daniel Karslake studies reactions of devout Christians who learn their child is gay.

In his first project since working on In The Life, Karslake said he felt a need to reach beyond an audience that already accepted partnered gays and lesbians.

Focusing on the gays-in-the-church debate - For the Bible Tells Me So features many pro-gay veterans of the theological debates.

A New Jersey lesbian couple has filed a civil rights complaint against a Methodist church association that refused to allow them to use it's campgrounds for their civil union ceremony.

STORY UPDATE: State withdraws tax break for campgrounds.

By KEVIN FREKING, Associated Press

President Bush's nominee for surgeon general insisted Thursday that he harbors no bias against homosexuals in spite of his 1991 writings viewed by some as anti-gay.

Dr. James Holsinger faced tough questioning at his Senate confirmation hearing over his views on homosexuality and how he would react if he were pressured to put politics ahead of science in his role as the nation's doctor.

PREVIOUS STORY HERE

"I would resign," Holsinger said emphatically.

Soulforce today expressed deep concern over the nomination of Dr. James Holsinger for United States Surgeon General.

"As the leading spokesperson for matters of public health, the Surgeon General should be guided by sound medical science, not religion-based bigotry," said Soulforce Executive Director Jeff Lutes.