Where the Spirit Leads

Drawing on impressive research he has conducted among both the clergy and lay leaders of the denomination, Wood draws a picture of gradual yet distinct change in United Methodists' attitudes toward homosexuality. Compared with ten and even five years ago, levels of acceptance or openness to the full inclusion of homosexual persons in the life and ministry of the church have increased noticeably. Beneath the sometimes vociferous debate that accompanies this issue a quiet shift in the opinions and convictions of United Methodists is taking place--one that needs to be taken into account if a full understanding of who United Methodists are as a people of God, and what they should do, is to be possible.