To Have and to Hold

This compelling new book, To Have and To Hold: Same-Gender Marriage in the Household of God, offers a comprehensive exploration of same-gender marriage within its historical, theological, and political contexts. Written by Horace Griffin, an openly-gay African American Episcopal priest and former professor, this writing directly challenges the pervasive opposition to same-gender marriage. The author reveals how marriage has always been an evolving institution, thoroughly debunking the myth of a static "traditional" model by examining diverse historical and biblical practices, including polygynous and arranged marriages, and struggles with interracial marriage in the United States. It critically analyzes selective biblical interpretations and natural law arguments used to condemn homosexuality, demonstrating their inconsistency and anachronistic application to modern loving relationships. Through powerful narratives, the book highlights the psychic pain and exclusion faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and their families due to religious and societal opposition. Griffin presents marriage as a celebration of love and sexuality as a gift from God, arguing that denying same-gender couples this right inflicts harm and contradicts Christian values of inclusion and justice. This work aims to guide pastors, congregants, and everyone else to a more expansive and compassionate understanding of marriage, affirming it as a stabilizing force for all loving couples.