Christian Faith and Same Sex Attraction

Eastern Orthodox Reflections

By: Thomas Hopko

Narrated by: Jonah Martin

Length: 2 hrs and 30 mins

Publisher's summary

Father Thomas Hopko draws on the wisdom of the Orthodox Christian Church and the Holy Scriptures to help us understand same-sex attraction, with both compassion and clarity. Combining theological and pastoral insights, this small gem will aid pastors, those who experience same-sex desires, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the nature of our identity and our sexuality. This book is in reality a primer on how to overcome the passions through the traditional Christian ascetic struggle, which, of course, applies to everyone.

©2005 Thomas Hopko (P)2021 Thomas Hopko

Excellent Explorstion of a Sensitive Topic

The topic of religion and same-sex attraction is rife with deep emotions. As such, it can be difficult to discuss the topic of religion, including Christianity, and same-sex attraction. Fr. Thomas Hopko delicately and thoroughly navigates the topic of Christian faith and same-sex attraction throughout the passage of this book. This does not mean it was an easy read; I doubt any book on this topic would be. It does mean that Fr. Thomas Hopko wrote with kindness and love emanating from the pages as he explores the topic within the context of Christian faith, both for people who experience same-sex attraction and those who do not.

The content of the book does not comfortably fit into the paradigm of mainstream cultural talking points. Thus, many who read this might find points they had not considered, as well as guidance for Christians to integrate into their daily lives.

I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to learn about Christian faith and same-sex attraction. As with anything that discusses such sensitive topics, I suggest that those who read the book do so with an open heart and mind. The audiobook version was well read, and at two and a half hours, it is convenient to fit this audiobook into a schedule.

A quick but informative listen

Christians and Same Sex Attraction written by Father Thomas Hopko is written to show the Orthodox view of same sex attraction, and what is acceptable in the eyes of the church. Unlike other books Ive seen Father Hopko doesnt condemn anyone. He gives a good reminder that unmarried heterosexual couple are to follow many of the same guidelines that homosexual couples do. Father Hopko uses scrpture and tradition and his experiences to make his points. My favorite chapter was chapter five as father Hopko reminds us that those with SSA are still good people and still made in the image of God.

The chapters of this book are quite short, and due to that some might prefer a print copy as opposed to the audio book version, others may prefer to get to listen to the short chapters. If you are one of those people who wants to read or listen to one more chapter before bed you will probably find yourself finishing it.

The chapters flow well and Jonah Martin is a clear and concise narrator. whatever your reason for picking up this book I hope you will enjoy it as much as i did.

I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange fo

I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. I’d asked for a copy because of the work that I do and the fact that I work every day with individuals who are struggling with issues of intimacy - emotional, psychological, and physical. I work with those of all gender identities and sexual orientations, and this book provided an opportunity to see a basic worldview that offers hope, consideration, and challenge to anyone who wants to reconcile their faith with the world that we live in.

Father Hopko takes a very loving approach to a topic that is charged with emotion. He doesn’t mince words when speaking about sexuality - and he challenges people of all orientations to remember that sexuality is only one part of being human; that our ultimate goal is communion with Christ. The approach in this small book is one of love, compassion, and concern for all people. There are many today who will be offended by what is said, and many more who will find a whole, compassionate approach and way to answer the question of what Scripture says and how Orthodox Christians should respond to non-traditional views/approaches of sexuality.

As an audiobook, you will find that the chapters are short and that it is hard to pick up on the order or organization of the chapter titles - it was the one thing I wish I had to look at so that I could follow it better. That said, it is a book I will listen to again in the future, and may procure hard copies of to share with others.