#26 - Make Sides Not War: Why the “Sides” Framework Still Supports the Sexuality Conversation

Within Christian circles on the faith and sexuality, we (especially Side B people) spend a lot of time talking about different “sides” and where we stand. Some people think we shouldn’t even talk about sides at all. While there may be merit to some of their objections, we still think it’s a valuable way of framing things. This episode explains why we keep using “Side A” and “Side B”. We might give you some new ideas, might change your mind… or it might just give you more things to argue about with us. We welcome all of those!

Note: This episode uses the terms “Side A” and “Side B” (and X, and Y) as shorthand quite a bit. If you’re new to the conversation (welcome!), you can totally join us for an insider conversation…but first we’d recommend one of these resources as an overview.

• Our Communion & Shalom episode #3 talks through the 4 “sides” #3 - A-B-Y-X | 4 Sides on SSA/Gay Sexuality
• This article from Life on Side B gives a good quick summary: https://www.lifeonsideb.com/thefoursides

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Timestamps

(00:57) Why did this topic come up? (04:40) What are the strengths of using "sides" language or framework? (09:33) Critiques of using "sides" language or frameworks (25:03) Critiques we find wisdom in (27:08) Alternatives: What other language besides "sides" could we use? (35:59) Is "sides" language sufficient for our moment?

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Links and References

Below are some names mentioned in this episode, which may help make this conversation easier to follow and look up.

• Saint Aelred - Wikipedia
• We mention Rosaria Butterfield on this episode, who represents “Side Y”.
• Matthew Vines represents a traditional “Side A” perspective.
• Tyler Sit was a guest on this podcast - Episode 13
• Giacomo San Filippo was a guest on this podcast - Episode 17

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→ Sharing feedback or questions! www.podpage.com/communion-shalom/contact

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→ Following us on Instagram! @communionandshalom

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Credits

Creators and Hosts: David Frank, TJ Espinoza Audio Engineer: Carl Swenson (www.carlswensonmusic.com) Podcast Manager: Elena