Are you questioning your gender identity?
Are you a Christian who has questions about cross-dressing?
This website is dedicated to a frank discussion and exploration of gender identity issues as they relate to Biblical and social concerns.
There are an estimated six million* (or more) people in the U.S. who are uncomfortable with their birth gender. Those who identify strongly with the gender opposite their physical birth gender may feel trapped in a life that does not fit. Out of obligation to family, friends, and career, they may attempt to deny or conceal their feelings, and some end up living a secret, closeted life. Perhaps this is you, or you know someone who fits this description.
The ministry Light in the Closet was developed for those who are already Christians, but also will benefit anyone seeking guidance in what the Bible may have to offer concerning transgender issues. This ministry provides information to encourage an honest exploration of gender identity and life-style choices, especially for the M2F (male to female) cross-dresser.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Psalm 23:3-5
Book: Light in the Closet, Biblical Insights for the M2F Transgender Journey
This publication is the printed version of the Biblically relevant information found on the website. This book was created for those, like me, who enjoy the printed form. You may find this easier to reference and read and also to share with others in addition to the website.
“Light in the Closet, Biblical Insights for the M2F (Male to female) Transgender Journey” is a collection or articles inspired by real questions from pastors concerning what the Bible says about being transgendered. Many of the questions deal with the subject of sin and the perspective that Jesus presents. Jesus was a radical, not only for his time, but for ours as well. The topic of gender expression is something the Church needs to discuss and Jesus has a lot to say about it. In this book, the teachings of Jesus are reviewed within the context of the time period and the mission God had him on. There are also references and guides to help the pastor or caregiver who is faced with the issue of gender identity during the counseling process.
The book contains articles that were complied over fifteen years, some of which appeared in the online magazine, “Grace and Lace.” The information and guidelines offered are not a replacement for professional, medical or psychological care. When it becomes evident, during counseling, that a care receiver needs professional care, those avenues should be pursued.
You can order the book through Walmart (CLICK HERE)
If you have questions or would like information, you may contact Light in the Closet
About Light in the Closet
This is a lay care giving ministry. The information and help offered is not a replacement for professional care. For those who need professional medical, clinical or psychological help should pursue those avenues. (See our resource section.*)
Some may wonder if this topic is outside the scope of traditional church care. To those I would say that Jesus desires us to be honest with him and each other, and sometimes that honesty is a bit messy. Authenticity, honesty and vulnerability are necessary if your intention is to pursue the truth of who you are.
We can hide from ourselves so well that we do not even know we are hiding in a “closet.” Closets may feel safe, but they are never places of growth. Even if you want to stay in your closet, you should allow some light in. This publication hopes to do just that so you may experience some peace, growth, and joy as you discover more about who you are in the light. Your trials and tests should not be feared but embraced as opportunities for clarity and wisdom.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:3-5
Although we prefer to avoid the valleys in our lives, most valleys we must walk through. Because Jesus promises to walk through the valley with us, that journey need not be full of frustration, but an honest exploration that will lead to godly growth. (see our Biblical article section )
*The figure of 6 million who question gender identity is from a Clinical and Sociological Information Census taken in 2000. This census was conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and confirmed by various groups including the American Medical Association (AMA). This figure attempts to include all individuals falling under the general category of transgender. 70% of these are male to female cross-dressers, many of whom are closeted. Figures are estimates and due to the nature of the subject matter, hard data is still difficult to gather.
A Ministry to those Marginalized by the Church
The term marginalized refers to individuals who feel the issues or struggles they are dealing with are not listed on the traditional church main page but are at best an after-thought scratched in the margins of care offered by the church. The purpose of this ministry is to provide information and an accepting environment in order to encourage honest conversation regarding gender identity and life-style choice. The information on this web site, especially the Q & A Article Index, may be helpful to anyone who feels they have been marginalized due to identity or acceptance issues.
Questions?
Your questions (and the answers) may be here in this section. If you don’t find your question, please fill out the form with your question, and we will respond with a thoughtful uplifting response about transgender issues from a Christian perspective.
Struggling Alone in Secret?
Many people have secrets that they feel are inappropriate to talk about, and avoid mentioning these struggles. We hope that through the ministry of Light in the Closet, those who are struggling with gender identity will find others to confide in for the purpose of pursuing God, His peace and an authentic life.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy-laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you…for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
(Matthew 11:28-30)
Practical Helps
Need advice for what you should do? These articles may help.