A Book of Prayer, for gay and lesbian Christians

Dr Elizabeth Stuart's manuscript 'Daring to Speak Love's Name' focuses on prayers for members of the LGBT community, particularly those who have suffered from HIV/AIDs. Dr Stuart is the professor of Christian Theology at the University of Winchester and founded the academic journal 'Theology and Sexuality'.

Published several times, Dr Stuart has been praised by the LGBTQ+ community, notably receiving the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement Award in 2008. Before publication the manuscript was vetoed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, George Carey, saying the book would 'only foster the myth, HIV and AIDs are confined to the homosexual community'. Dr Stuart was upset and disappointed with his decision as she trusted the Bishop's word that he wanted to learn more about homosexuality within the Christian faith. 

The church remains very divided about issues of homosexuality. 2021 saw the CofE publish 'Living in Love and Faith', a report on sexuality, marriage and LGBTQ+ issues. It did not propose any change to the Church's official doctrines, but instead offered resources summarising the latest thinking on how the Bible, church traditions and society understand gay marriage and transgender rights. In 2022, the College of Bishops began work on proposals for a way forward.