Gay and lesbian christians: Homosexual and religious identity integration in the members and participants of a gay-positive church

Author(s): Ouellette, S. C.

Journal/Book: J Sci Stud Relig. 2000; 39: Brigham Young Univ 875 Swkt, Sociology Dept, Provo, UT 84602, USA. Soc Scientific Study Religion. 333-347.

Abstract: In this study we explore individual's experiences of identity integration between their sexual orientation and religious beliefs. Using both qualitative and quantitative research methods, we examined identity integration in forty members and participants of the Metropolitan Community Church of New York (MCC/NY), a gay-positive church located in Mid-town Manhattan, The survey and interview data collected showed that: (1) a majority of the research participants reported that they had successfully integrated their homosexual and religious identities, (2) being integrated was related to higher role involvement at MCC/NY, being a member of the church, attending more MCC/NY workship services and activities/ministries, and attending MCC/NY fore more years, (3) lesbians were less likely than gay men to report past conflict between their identities, and more likely to report being fully integrated, and (4) MCC/NY played an important role in helping these participants achieve integration between their homosexual and religious identities.

Note: Article Rodriguez EM, CUNY Grad Sch & Univ Ctr, Doctoral Program Psychol, Subprogram Social Personal Psychol, 365 5th Ave, New York,NY 10016 USA

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