russia has launched a full-scale war in Ukraine. Donate to support Ukraine and protect the world’s peace.

Building a Bridge

summary ofBuilding a BridgeBook by James Martin

11 min
00:00
/
00:00
Get full summary

You’ll learn

  • Why Christ's example lights the way to inclusion
  • How respect transcends dogma and doctrine
  • The secret to turning empathy into action
  • How to bridge divides with love and compassion

first KEY POINT

There has been a rift between the church and the LGBTQ community for a long time

The LGBTQ is the umbrella term for individuals who are non-heterosexual or non-cisgender. This group is exclusive to people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (questioning their sexuality). These individuals have had to suffer great persecution over the course of history because of their life choices. This persecution was chiefly perpetrated by the church.

Being gay or queer was tantamount to committing a crime bоth against God and the government.

Fr. Martin uses his extensive knowledge to try to find a way to bring this marginalized group back to the fold and to keep them free of any kind of condemnation. The church and of course its foundation all frown upon same-sex relationships and as such, the last place you’d want to be as a member of the LGBTQ is the church.

The church is forefront in the condemnation and fanning the flames of persecution of the LGBTQ.

It is this divide that Fr. Martin wishes to close up or put a bridge across. Using teachings from the catechism and the life Jesus led, he is able to create a template for us as readers to follow, on how to relate better with members of the LGBTQ community.

Christ’s teachings make it so we can in fact treat the LGBTQ better.

In today’s world, although there is more inclusion and people are open to them, members of the LGBTQ are still oppressed and persecuted. Akin to bigotry, the church and its members have judged them as flawed and broken. As such, some people believe that they do not deserve God’s love. This notion will be dismantled as we read further.

second KEY POINT

It is important to respect people and their life’s choices

One key way to change our mindset toward the LGBTQ community is to remember that every human is made in God’s image. This means that every person is deserving of our respect whether gay or straight. The life of a gay or lesbian individual in no way affects that of a straight individual. The continued hatred and persecution is a product of disrespect for their basic humanity.

book cover

Continue reading with Headway app

Continue reading

Full summary is waiting for you in the app

first KEY POINT

If we are of God then we must show compassion like Christ taught us

second KEY POINT

There is a place for sensitivity in dealing with the LGBTQ community

third KEY POINT

Opening the doors to the LGBTQ also shows compassion to the church

fourth KEY POINT

It is important to build a bridge between the church and the LGBTQ

fifth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

James Martin is an American Jesuit priest, an accomplished writer, and editor of Jesuit Magazine America. He has also consulted the Pope on matters concerning communications since 2017.

Join 55+ million learners worldwide

172K 5 reviews on App Store and Google Play

Get started

Frequently asked questions

What is Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity about?

Building a Bridge examines the relationship between the Catholic Church and the LGBT community, emphasizing the importance of respect, compassion, and sensitivity. The author, Father James Martin, advocates for dialogue and understanding, aiming to foster a more inclusive atmosphere within the Church.

Who is the author of Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity?

The author of Building a Bridge is Father James Martin, a Jesuit priest and noted writer who has been a prominent voice for LGBT inclusion in the Catholic Church.

Is Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity worth reading?

Yes, Building a Bridge is worth reading for those interested in the intersection of faith and sexual orientation. Its compassionate approach and insightful perspectives encourage dialogue and understanding, making it valuable for both religious and LGBT individuals.

How many pages is Building a Bridge and when was it published?

Building a Bridge is 144 pages long and was published on June 13, 2017. This concise format allows for an engaging reading experience while tackling significant themes.

What are the key takeaways from Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity?

Key takeaways from Building a Bridge include the need for empathy and dialogue between the Catholic Church and the LGBT community, along with the importance of creating a culture of acceptance and understanding. Father Martin emphasizes the shared humanity of all people, regardless of sexual orientation.