Date of Award

2000

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

First Advisor

Laura Boisen

Second Advisor

Janelle Bussert

Third Advisor

Paula Haraldson

Abstract

Gay men have varying degrees of involvement in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). This exploratory, qualitative study looked at the participation of gay men in Reconciling-In-Chnst (RIC) Lutheran congregations, what has affected that participation, and how the participants feel about their involvement in the Lutheran Church. Five gay men between the ages of 40-60 were interviewed regarding how they feel about their participation in the Lutheran church. The findings indicate that some participants left the church at some time, that all participants are curently active in the Lutheran Church, and that all participants are dissatisfied with the ELCA policies on gay men and lesbians. The findings also show that most participants are more satisfied with local RIC congregations. The implication to social work is that gay men need to be viewed holistically, including addressing their spirituality.

Identifier

SC 11.MSW.2000.Vorhes.ME

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