Collection

Abels, Paul Papers (included in the Affirmation and Reconciling Congregation Records)

Span Dates: 1942-1992
Bulk Dates:
Volume: 7.0 cubic ft.

Description

The Paul Abels Collection includes Abel's writings, sermons, and notes as well as subject files that reflect Abel's interests and accomplishments. The collection also includes papers concerning music, art, his early education, family genealogy, and trips abroad. Materials include audio cassettes, ephemera, journals, legal documents, publications, photographs, manuscripts, newspaper clippings, pamphlets, and sermons. The Paul Abels Collection is arranged with Abel's original filing system intact. There are no restrictions on this collection.

Hist/Bio Note

Paul Abels (1937-1992) was one of the first Methodist pastors to publicly acknowledge his homosexuality, a pioneer in AIDS activism and a link between the church and several secular support groups and organizations. For additional biographical information, use the above link to the LGBTRAN Profile Gallery or visit the online finding aid.
https://www.lgbtran.org/Profile.aspx?ID=2

Finding Aid

A finding aid is available online at the following url. In addition to a biography and content notes, it includes a list of folders in the collection.
https://catalog.gcah.org/publicdata/gcah2757.htm

Location

The collection is located at Drew University Library in the United Methodist Archives Center.
https://www.drew.edu/library/special-collections-archives/umahc/

Tags

Methodist (UMC, United Methodist Church) | Abels, Paul | Affirmation (United Methodist) | Activist (religious institutions) | AIDS | Ordination/clergy | New York | New York City