At a time when fanatics of various stripes use faith as a smokescreen for intolerance and hate, this work, focusing on the conflict over homosexuality in the Church, argues that religious belief can also foster a spirit of compassion and understanding.

"One comes away from Mr. Hartmen's book with a renewed appreciation of the diversity and vigor of religious life in this country. At a time when fanatics of various stripes use faith as a smokescreen for intolerance and hate, it is valuable to be reminded that religious belief can foster a spirit of compassion and understand. ing". -- Baltimore Sun "Fascinating, highly-readable array of human stories.... Hartman has written the first book that reveals how the competing principles are being played out in the pews". -- Windy City Times "Hartman's message is one of hope....A readable, thought provoking study of the fomentations of faith within a community and within a congregation". -- Washington Blade "An invaluable beginning to the healing of misunderstanding on all sides". -- Publishers Weekly