Inaugural Jim Dekker Memorial Just Peace Lecture

Same-sex marriage is controversial because it is about sex and marriage, two loaded topics in this culture. Marvin Ellison, Willard S. Bass Professor of Christian Ethics at Bangor Theological Seminary (Maine), will discuss how, in the midst of public conflict, progressive religion can help by putting the focus where it rightly belongs: not on the gender of the partners but on relational justice and the challenge of creating the social and economic conditions in which families can thrive, including LBGT families.

Ellison’s publications include Same-Sex Marriage? A Christian Ethical Analysis, Body and Soul: Rethinking Sexuality as Justice-Love and Erotic Justice: A Liberating Ethic of Sexuality.

Admission is free. Co-sponsored by the Center for Equality and Justice, United Church of Christ in Simi Valley, Progressive Christians Uniting of Los Angeles, the Religion Department, the Segerhammar Center for Faith and Culture, and the Office of Campus Ministry.