Description
Book Synopsis In 1980s America, coming out as gay as a father and husband was a significant journey for anyone to make. Coming out as gay as a priest guaranteed immersion into controversy, contradiction, and challenge. This book tells of the Reverend Canon Ted Karpf''s navigation of new social and romantic journeys, all within the context of his priestly vocation in the Episcopal Church.
Covering from 1968 to 2018, Karpf recounts his vivid memories, life-changing dreams and resonant reflections on living a life of faith in a socially and politically tumultuous period. His narratives are crafted as poetic meditations on enduring values and meaning, which can remind any reader that we are neither abandoned nor alone, and that forgiveness is a fulfilling way of living in a world of contradictions.
Trade ReviewTed Karpf is an international journeyman of hope.
Acts of Forgiveness: Faith Journeys of a Gay Priest offers a rare glimpse into the life of a man who in the face of death, betrayal, and loss has been given every reason to abandon the God who loves him and yet he pilgrimages onwards. More than a memoir, Ted's testament to the power of grace shows how abiding faith neither leaves nor abandons God but finds hope in the unavoidable tensions of the life we all share." —The Reverend Joshua Case, Associate Rector, Christ Church, Charlotte, North Carolina
Table of Contents
- Foreword by Ray L. Hart 1
- Preface 3
- I. Home Going 7
- II. Forgiveness and Loving 23
- III. Self-Acceptance and Mentoring 45
- IV. Identity and Kindness 62
- V. Conscience and Confidence 80
- VI. Calling and Commitment 89
- VII. Resilience and Resolve 114
- VIII. Death and Life: Will the Circle Be Unbroken? 137
- IX. Generativity: Parenting 157
- X. Prayer and Faithfulness 187
- XI. Hope for the Future 206
- Acknowledgments 213
- Bibliography 217
- Index 219
