Book Review
A short overview of this book
A Church for All by Gayle E. Pitman is a lovely book about inclusiveness and how all people are loved by god regardless of their skin colour, sexual identity or ability.
This is what the Publisher has to say…
On Sunday morning, we gather together. We are every color. Every age. Rich and poor. Our church is open, affirming, and accepting. We believe in love instead of hate. There’s room for everyone! This book celebrates a spiritual community that embraces all people―no matter their age, race, class, gender identity, or sexual orientation―in love and faith.
You can learn more on this page, about how to talk to kids about sex education.
Video Transcription
A transcription in case you are more of a reader than a listener
Hey there! I’m Cath Hak, your friendly Sex Ed Rescue expert. I’m here to help parents like you have those sometimes awkward conversations about sex with your kids. Today, I want to share a great book I found at my local library that might be just what you need.
It’s called A Church for All by Gail Pittman. Now, I know that for many of you, religion and faith are important parts of your lives. But sometimes, depending on your religion, the messages you hear may not be inclusive. That’s why I wanted to tell you about this book.
I have a friend who’s a chaplain and she recently had to leave her local church because they weren’t accepting of transgender and same-sex individuals. It was really tough for her, but she found a more inclusive church that aligns with her values. And that’s why A Church for All is so important.
You see, sometimes we don’t have a choice about the church we go to because of where we live. I hear from parents all the time who say, I live in a town where everyone is homophobic and believes it’s a sin. But I don’t want my kids growing up that way. How can I have these conversations?
Well, books like A Church for All can really help. You can read it to your kids if you’re in a situation where there’s a lot of homophobia or transphobia in your community. It can show them that one day, when they’re adults, they can find a church that aligns with your family’s values, even if it’s not where you live right now.
Now, my daughter asked me why I was reading this book for sex education. I had to explain to her that it’s not just about sex, but about being inclusive. And this book definitely delivers on that front!
It starts off with two dads having breakfast with their children, and two women or girls holding hands as they walk to church. Throughout the book, we see different families going about their day, all coming together at the church. It’s a beautiful depiction of diversity, with people of all abilities, backgrounds, and walks of life.
The book emphasizes that this church is for everyone, no matter if you’re weak or healthy, neat or messy, poor or wealthy, plain or dressy. It’s a place where everyone is welcome and accepted. I absolutely love how smoothly this book reads, too. It just flows off the tongue!
So, I’m going to make sure to put this book in the section for LGBT families, as well as the religion and church section. As parents, I think you’ll find it to be an incredibly helpful resource.
I hope you found this review helpful. Cheers!
