For several years, I've been collecting materials for a book which offers a Biblical defense of same sex relationships. As part of that process, my wife and I have met many interesting people, including Kathy Baldock, founder of Canyonwalker Connections and author of Walking the Bridgeless Canyon: Repairing the Breach between the Church and the LGBT Community.
We connected with Kathy recently in hope that she would review my children's illustrated story book Rumplepimple, because it features two moms. I listened to Kathy on a radio interview, and found myself mesmerized by both her story and her lovely voice. Kathy graciously agreed to answer a few questions for me to share here, and even recorded her responses so that you can more actively participate in the unfolding of the adventure that changed her life.
Meet Kathy Baldock. I think you'll like her.
Please give us the elevator speech for your book.
Tell us about what made you decide to try and cross the canyon.
I find it fascinating that times of brokenness often lead to intense revelation. In the case of your story, the destruction of your marriage ultimately resulted in an exploration that is helping thousands of people. It's a manifestation of death and resurrection I suppose. Can you tell us a little bit about this aspect of your journey?
My wife and I have been pondering how frequently Christ's revelation is embodied. Humans can't seem to comprehend God through the Bible or religion alone, and so He has to put on flesh and speaks to us face to face, forcing us to acknowledge His form in all its beautiful scandal.
In the case of your friend Matthew Vines (author of God and the Gay Christian), He came in the shape of a child who tells a parent that he is gay, which forces them to confront their knowledge of scriptures and of their beloved child. In your case, Christ came in the form of a Native American woman who was a lesbian. Can you comment for us a bit about why God works in this way?
This question of "will you walk with me?" has profound Christian implications. Can you share your reflections about what it means and the impact that walking with "the other" has had on your life and on your spirituality?
What can we expect to see from you in coming months and years?
Thanks so much for sharing your story, Kathy.
Kathy frequently travels to teach on this subject, and is often a target of harassment and threats as a result. Please pray for her safety and that of her host organizations. And pray for those who believe that Christ approves of threats and intimidation.
You can follow Kathy's work on Facebook here.