Prayers for Animals Book

This is a book that sat on my shelf for years, but only know has been read. Written in 1988, I wondered if it would have anything to say to readers in 2014. Indeed, it does! Nelson moves beyond the recent trends towards androgyny and speaks forcefully for a reclaimed sense of true masculinity.

For anyone (particularly women) who ever really wanted to understand how men think and feel sexually, this is a great read. Lots of honest insights about strengths and insecurities, and the basis for many of them.

One of the greatest challenges of recovering a sense of male sexuality and spirituality is the pervading fear of homosexuality. While there has been growth in understanding and acceptance in recent years, it continues to be a huge barrier. Nelson does a nice job of addressing these concerns and offering a healthier vision of male sexuality.

I found particular fascination in his chapter addressing the development of male sexuality as it relates to the incarnation of the divine in Jesus. Only in hindsight do I see his insights about the Renaissance, and how Jesus, and men in general, are portrayed sexually. He also has a great discussion about the phallic influence historically, and the need to incorporate the phallic image with the penis, and how they combine to reflect an integrated male sexuality.

Some of the conclusions Nelson draws may make readers a bit uncomfortable - particular when it comes to the spiritual understandings of male sexuality. Clearly left-of-center theologically, those from a more fundamentalist perspective will have a very difficult time reading this book. But Nelson has very valid insights to share, and I highly commend this book to any who are serious about reflection upon issues of sexuality and spirituality. Although written close to 25 years ago, it speaks clearly and profoundly to men today.