700%. That’s how much calls to LGBTQIA+ crisis hotlines have increased since November 5th. Part of Christ’s beautiful body is in pain. How can church leaders respond in love? How do we provide a truly safe place knowing opinions among church members vary?

Fortunately, we have books.

If your church isn’t openly affirming, a children’s message can be heard in a way often dismissed in the traditional sermon. Rainbow Allies tells the true story of a couple who move to a new neighborhood only to have their pride flag destroyed. Neighborhood kids sell lemonade to raise money to replace the flag and buy matching flags for all of the neighbors to hang in support. If you think telling a story about a Pride flag would be too much for your congregation, simply say it was a flag celebrating who they are. Have copies of the book available after services for anyone wanting more information. You could also have copies in the prayground, nursery and crying room.

Still Stace: My Gay Christian Coming-of-Age Story is a memoir of a teenager struggling with her sexuality and faith. Place copies in the youth room, bathrooms or other places where it could be visible and accessible. If your congregation is exploring how to be more welcoming and affirming, Still Stace would be wonderful for a book club or small group.

Queerfully and Wonderfully Made is a guide for anyone who is questioning and needing advice on how to be the person God created them to be. It’s companion book, Welcoming and Affirming: A Guide to Supporting and Working with LGBTQ+ Christian Youth is a wonderful resource for allies and is another great selection for a church book club or small group.

Simply placing one or all of these resources where they will be seen can speak volumes. Place them prominently on your desk, walk with one or more in your hand, and have copies available so people are able to take them as they wish to either return later or keep.

Also, remember that many of your older congregants might be struggling more, especially if they were raised in a time or environment where the support didn’t or couldn’t exist. Sometimes the simplicity of children’s books can be a balm to an old wound.

For even more support, go to Resources for the LGBTQIA+ Community.

Coming soon and now on pre-order from Beaming Books: Rainbow Boy and the Pride Parade