Listen now (40 mins) | Dr. Felipe Do Vale discusses his book 'Gender as Love: A Theological Account of Human Identity, Embodied Desire, and Our Social Worlds.' He explains his interest in the topic of gender and how it has evolved over the years. Dr. Do Vale argues for a theological approach to gender, bridging the gap between those who focus on gender and those who focus on theology. He proposes that gender is an identity formed by our loves and that a Christian theology of human love provides a way to understand and evaluate gendered goods in our world. He also discusses the application of his theological framework in ministry and everyday life. In this conversation, Dr. Fellipe do Vale discusses the importance of engaging with gender identity and the role of love in understanding it. He emphasizes the need for pastors to have mental and emotional intelligence and to ask questions that delve into a person's love and sense of belonging. Dr. do Vale also explores the influence of social media on gender identity and highlights the interconnectedness of various aspects of a person's life. He encourages pastors to engage people on the level of their loves and to prioritize simple practices of human care. Finally, he discusses the importance of balancing critical scholarship with faith.