"Truly unique and fascinating ... <i>Desire Work</i> sheds new light on Africa. . . . Recommended. Graduate students, researchers, and professionals." - W. Arens (Choice) "<i>Desire Work</i> is a remarkably rich, detailed, and passionate ethnography. . . . As gender studies in Africa continues to grow as a field, this book provides a needed contribution to understanding homosexuality and masculinity among . . . men in the first country in the world whose constitution outlawed homophobic discrimination: South Africa." - Dianna Bell (Journal of Religion in Africa) "<i>Desire Work</i> is a rich and fascinating ethnographic study worth reading by anyone with an academic interest in gender, sexuality, and self-making in evangelical and Pentecostal Christian circles." - Adriaan van Klinken (H-Africa, H-Net Reviews) "There is no doubt that <i>Desire Work</i> is an important book, offering the reader glimpses into the wider body of work on the subject. It is written in an accessible, engaging, and compassionate style, and makes a contribution to the field of gender and sexuality studies as well as opening up new avenues for theological exploration." - Beverley Haddad (Anthropological Forum) "The book presents an honest and refreshing account of the methodological challenges of conducting such research. ... [It] will be useful specifically to those wanting to understand the ex-gay movement and Pentecostalism as well as to those interested in the intersection of sexuality, gender, and nationality." - Alex Toft (American Journal of Sociology) “<i>Desire Work</i> emerges as a genuine and serious description of the challenges and struggles of South African men who must navigate the overlapping layers of societal, cultural, and religious demands as they seek a pathway that allows for faithful, authentic expression of masculinity and sexuality…. <i>Desire Work</i> is strongly recommended to mental health professionals, pastoral theologians, pastor caregivers and other ministry practitioners as a cautionary tale and guidepost, calling for careful consideration and reflection when engaging in the sacred task of transforming and changing lives.” - Eddie L. Journey (Pneuma)
Acknowledgments xv
Introduction: Adrian's Desire Work 1
1. Cultural Convergences 39
2. Building Godly Emotional Intimacy 63
3. Becoming Spiritual Warriors: Learning How to Fight Demonic Sexual Desires 87
4. Mastering Romance and Sexual Feelings 115
5. "I Didn't Fall, I'm Free": Leaving Healing Revelation Ministries 139
Afterword 165
Notes 171
References 177
Index 197