Diocesan News
Robinson biography released in Columbus
By By Mike Barwell
Jun 18, 2006, 08:25

Bishop Robinson addresses hundreds of Deputies and visitors who came for his talk and book signing.

Nearly 500 people crowded around the Consultation Booth in the Convention Hall in Columbus on Saturday afternoon to hear Bishop Robinson's reflections on his time here and to answer their questions for nearly an hou.

They also lined up along the aisle and around the corner to purchase the first copies of "Going to Heaven: The Life and Election of Gene Robinson" by St. Thomas, Hanover, parishioner Beth Adams.

More than three years in the making, Adams' biography provides an intimate look at Gene's life. Through  a lively text based on extensive interviews with the bishop, his closest associates, family, colleagues, and observers, the book paints a paints a portrait of Robinson not as a symbol but a himan being who is, as he puts it, "neither the angel nor the devil some would make me out to be." Illustrated with archival photos, the book illuminates his life; his struggle with and eventual acceptance of his sexual orientation; his calling to become a priest and later a bishop.

"Going to Heaven" tells the story of the critical, central events of his election and consecration amid intense opposition, huge security concerns, and media attention. The book follows him through the following two years as he juggles dual roles -- bishop of New Hampshire and symbol of gay achievement and the progressive church -- while the opposition stirred by his election creates increasing pressure for schism in the Anglican Communion.

The book concludes with a discussion of the deep theological and historical significance of Robinson's election and personal vision for the future, and what this means both for individuals and for a church seeking to be relevant in today's world.

The book will be available in July in New Hampshire and several book signings are being scheduled.