from Theological Issues

Young Gay Activist Seeks Divinity Degree To
Question Religious Opposition To Homosexual Conduct

June 6, 2006 - Jacob Reitan has recently been given a full scholarship to attend Harvard Divinity School this fall. His goal in attending the divinity school is not to become a pastor but to gain a religious education to use in the fight for gay rights.

Reitan believes that the battle for gay rights must be fought within a religious context, which is why he and his family are involved in Soulforce, a gay organization founded by Pastor Mel White and his partner Gary Nixon.

Reitan, 24, has gained a reputation in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota for his activism. He helped organize a Soulforce "Equality Ride" that involved a series of sit-ins and demonstrations throughout the United States at religious schools and military academies. Reitan and his activist allies picketed West Point, Jerry Falwell's Liberty University, Brigham Young University, and other campuses.

Reitan hopes to use his divinity school training to reinterpret the Bible and its views on homosexuality. He believes the view that homosexuality is a sin is based upon incomplete and erroneous interpretations of Bible passages.

Additional Reading: Responding to Pro-Gay Theology