Christianity and Judaism have had long standing theological concerns with LGBTQ+ issues. BUT from the Vatican to certain Jewish denominations, there are movements afoot to be more open, tolerant, and accepting. In the first of a two-part series on gender and spirituality, we’ll talk with Father James Martin and Rabbi Shira Stutman about the history of discrimination in their traditions and how that’s starting to change. We’ll also take a look at the science behind how religion can directly impact people’s attitudes toward LGBTQ issues on an emotional level, and hear from Meli Barber, the president of Dignity USA about her difficult experiences with the church and her hopes for change. Father James Martin’s new book Come Forth: The Promise of Jesus’s Greatest Miracle is now available for purchase. For more information on his ministry and work providing resources for LGBTQ Catholics, visit the Outreach website. Rabbi Shira Stutman is a nationally known faith-based leader and advocate for LGBTQ rights. Check out her wonderful podcast, Chutzpod! here. Meli Barber is the current president of Dignity USA, an organization for LGBTQIA+ Catholics. Learn more about their work here. Read Dave’s paper about the influence of emotions on implicit biases here.