Texas Pastor Faces Scrutiny Over Use of Inclusive Bible Translation

The Rev. Jim Rigby, pastor of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Austin, Texas, has drawn attention for his promotion of The Inclusive Bible, a translation that removes gendered language for God and Jesus. In undercover footage recorded in August, Rigby described the text as beneficial for its gender-neutral approach, though he noted it may be less effective for theological study. The church, which is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), reportedly gifts copies of this translation to new members during services.

Published in 2007 by Priests for Equality, The Inclusive Bible aims to provide an egalitarian reading of scripture by replacing traditional gendered terms. The translation has been described by its publishers as a re-imagining of the text intended to remove linguistic barriers. The recent reports regarding Rigby’s use of the translation have gained additional public notice due to his role as a spiritual mentor to Texas state representative and U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico.