The Way of Hope: A Fresh Perspective on Sexual Identity, Same-Sex Marriage, and the Church

Most churches today struggle to answer the same-sex relationship debate that is quickly transforming our culture, our kids, and our churches. As a result, Christians struggle to demonstrate love and grace to those with same-sex attraction. That means that more and more people who are looking for truth and a place where they belong are deciding that the church is either indifferent to their struggle or outright hostile to "people like them."

There's a better way--the way of hope. With deep understanding born from her own painful experiences, Melissa Fisher shows that somewhere between the extremes of condemning and condoning is compassion. In this book, she aims to equip the church to make a positive difference in the lives of those hurting from relational or sexual brokenness. Perfect for pastors, parents, siblings, and friends of the ten million people in America who identify as LGBTQ, who long to love them well.

From the Back Cover

"Am I welcome here?"

It's the most challenging question churches face today. With a history of condemning people for their sexual temptations, desires, or orientations, many churches and Christians in an attempt to right that wrong have simply adopted the world's more indulgent view.

What if the church could show up in a different way?

With deep understanding born from her own painful experiences, Melissa shows that somewhere between the extremes of condemning and condoning is the way of Jesus, a way marked with courage, compassion, and hope. The Way of Hope aims to equip the church to make a positive impact in the lives of those hurting from their relational or sexual differences. It aims to inspire everyone, regardless of sexual identity or gender orientation, toward a relationship with Jesus, who wants to offer us all love and hope greater than anything we've ever known.


"In this book, Melissa takes you into her journey--a journey common to all people searching for faith and navigating the confusing waters of the church and culture. Whether you are gay or straight, confused or secure in your identity, consider another way--the way of hope."--from the foreword by John Burke, pastor of Gateway Church Austin, author of No Perfect People Allowed and Imagine Heaven


Perfect for pastors, parents, siblings, and friends wanting to love, support, and understand, as well as anyone who identifies as LGBT and who longs to have a safe place to explore the truth and love of Jesus.


Melissa Fisher is writer, speaker, and church consultant. Having seen God's power work in her own life, she is passionate about seeing the lost, broken, de-churched, and unchurched find freedom, healing, and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Formally on staff at Gateway church, she now spends her time helping equip churches and ministries around the world engage the hearts of those seeking answers to questions on gender, sexuality, and faith. When she's not traveling in her van, she lives in Austin, Texas, and calls Gateway Church home. Connect with her at www.gothewayofhope.com.