Conditionally Accepted by Baker A. Rogers

This book explores Mississippi Christians' beliefs about homosexuality and gay and lesbian civil rights, and whether having a gay or lesbian friend or family member changes those beliefs. Evangelical Protestants believe homosexuality is sinful and oppose gay and lesbian rights even when they have gay or lesbian friends or relatives. Mainline Protestants are largely supportive and become more so after getting to know gay and lesbian people. Catholics show more uncertainty and a conditional acceptance, with clear differences between conservatives and liberals. For conservative Christians, religious identity overshadows their relationships with gay and lesbian people and blocks the positive effects of those relationships.