Redemptoris Mater
Ineffabilis Deus
Salvifici Doloris

Transgenderism Two: Evidence and Identity

by Francis Etheredge

Over the course of a number of years, the author has gravitated to a question which has come to the fore more and more: Can a person change his or her sex? What seemed like an occasional, anecdotal questioning, has emerged as a major crisis, especially among young people and their families. But, what is more, this is not an abstract question; it has profound implications for the health and well being of many people, many institutions, and society as a whole.

As we explore the roots of this phenomenon we begin to realise that it has grown out of an anti-woman feminism which goes back decades and which, like a virus, has spread far and wide, residing in many institutional policies, mentalities, and encroaching upon justice in the workplace and in society generally. But, going further than describing the extent and nature of gender ideology, an idea that has been imposed on people and societies, it is necessary to examine its explicit or implied philosophy. For, with respect to an increasing number of young people, often girls, it is leading to the life-changing destruction of healthy sexual organs which, in some cases, are replaced with “facsimiles” of the opposite sex.

Drilling down, then, into human identity entails focusing on the depths of the human person, the crucial sensitivity needed to aid each young person with his or her formation. But, in view of the society in which we live, this book is also about being informed about the social context in which questions of identity are being asked and answered.

Paperback: $24.95 | Audible: $14.99 | Kindle $9.99

LISTEN TO THIS BOOK ON AUDIBLE!
PAPERBACK - UK
PAPERBACK - USA
eBOOK
BULK ORDERS

Author Articles

“Conception: A Contradiction?” by Francis Etheredge, Homiletics and Pastoral Review (December 11, 2020), available here.

Testimonials

“In this sequel to his earlier book on Transgenderism, Francis Etheredge examines the political and social dynamics of the transgender movement. In a special way, he provides evidence of the harm done to women by transgender policies. He likewise explores the political landscape of transgenderism, taking note of recent efforts in the USA, the U.N., the United Kingdom, and Australia to promote and confront gender ideology. This book is highly recommended for all people of good will who are concerned about the spiritual and social realities of the transgender movement.” – Robert Fastiggi, Ph.D., Professor of Dogmatic Theology, Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Detroit, Michigan

“In Transgenderism Two: Evidence and Identity, author Francis Etheredge helps us further traverse the murky legal, social, political, and medical bioethics of the transgender world-wide landscape. From the United Nations to our state courtrooms to our community sports teams to our schools’ bathrooms to our own backyards, we need to know what we’re really dealing with in this rapidly disintegrating cultural malaise. Confused discussions, incorrect judgments, and myriad misperceptions flowing from radical gender ideology are leading to rampant discrimination and the physical, social, and emotional harming of, particularly, vulnerable young people and their families, as well as the entire society. Only when issues of gender identity and sexual confusion are considered in light of the deeper understanding of the truth, goodness, and beauty of the human person, the full meaning of man and woman, as such, and with acknowledgment of the hard work of honest compassion in truly painful circumstances, can insights be found to confront and defeat this perverse ideology.” – Kiki Latimer, author of Home for the Homily

“Francis Etheredge successfully and thoughtfully brings to light the greater questions associated with gender ideology relating to the dignity of the human person, cultures, medical procedures, and law. Through an honest discussion, he unveils discrepancies and unrealistic expectations of governments and societies in their perpetuation of gender ideology. Providing information, facts, and highlighting unresolved issues which have arisen in the above sectors, Etheredge demonstrates that far more needs to be done to protect our youth and societies to ensure their greatest good. —Kimberly Bruce, M.A. Theology, and author of The Gender Link to the Human Soul and Look at the SON: The Fruit of Medjugorje. She frequently writes for the Marian.org and TheDivineMercy.org websites and other Catholic media

“Francis Etheredge has taken on the challenge of consolidating current, interdisciplinary, evidence-based research essential for society’s understanding of best practices for people with gender dysphoria. This extensively researched book is a clarion call for a drastic change in direction. Minor children, especially, are at grave risk of being harmed by current medical approaches and, for that and other reasons, many jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, France and New Zealand, have stopped the use of puberty blockers and hormone treatments shown to cause harm. They all recommend ongoing monitoring and counselling as children develop through the natural stages. Etheredge’s passion and concern for the best interests of transgender people is rooted in his strong faith in the God who made us all in His own image and likeness as stewards of the gift of our bodies, not as owners who may choose to refashion our bodies as we desire.” – Dr. Moira McQueen, CCBI, University of St Michael’s College

“Transgenderism Two: Evidence and Identity is a book whose time is now. In Transgenderism Two, Francis Etheredge combines sound philosophy, theology and medical science to guide readers through lucid critical thinking exercises regarding human identity and personhood. He reminds readers that these material and spiritual entities are perfectly united and rooted in Christ, as he simultaneously exposes how transgenderism deconstructs this reality and leads to harmful chaos. Given our Lady of Fatima’s warning against the pervasive ‘diabolical disorientation’ of modern times, Transgenderism Two: Evidence and Identity should be read by all Catholics—most especially parents and grandparents, teachers, theologians, health professionals, and the entire Catholic magisterium, from the humblest parish priest to the Pope himself.” – Michelle A. Cretella, MD, member of the board of the John Paul II Academy for Human Life and the Family, an international lay apostolate founded by the original members of St JP II’s Pontifical Academy of Life

Review by Christine Sunderland

Francis Etheredge, bioethicist and gifted writer, in this important sequel to Transgenderism: A Question of Identity, considers recent testimony and legal judgment that identifies who we are. The evidence is powerful, derived from the United Kingdom Supreme Court (April 2025), the United States Department of Health and Human Services (May 2025), and the Family Court of Australia (April 2025). In discussing these documents he explores the interweaving of law and license, of definitions and precedents, and the dangers of confusing and conflating opinion with fact.

 

The world is taking notice of clinicians who are possibly engaged in malpractice and, at the very least, are not respecting the vow to “do no harm” to their patients, conducting lucrative surgeries in this brave new world of gender dysphoria, insurance payments, and idealogue medicine.

 

The great threat, of course, is to vulnerable children, under the age of consent, who, through words and social media persuasion, make decisions regarding their gender. These are adolescents and younger, minors who cannot fully understand the life-altering consequences of their choices. As a result, healthy organs are removed without parental consent or with misinformed, coerced parental consent. Ideology has infiltrated medicine through schools and media. Those who disagree are silenced in the name of discrimination.

 

In his discussion of the formation of human identity, Etheredge considers the scientific consensus that concludes we are fully formed at conception and what this means in terms of our gender. With reference to numerous authorities and extensive footnoted research, he underpins his discussion with philosophy – truth and reality, words and meaning, giving the reader a foundation of reason. For we are outward creations of an inner reality, echoing the Christian definition of sacrament. It seems that we are, after all, sacramental and whole creatures, children of a loving God, created in his image.

 

As a mother, grandmother, and writer, I am particularly grateful for Francis Etheredge’s immense undertakings in this vital field of bioethics. As he ends on a hopeful note, I add my own hope that he finds a large audience for this commonsense and timely dose of truth and reality. Bravo!

 

Christine Sunderland, Anglo-Catholic Novelist
Trinitytide, 2025

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mr. Francis Etheredge is married with eight children, plus three in heaven.

Francis is currently a freelance writer and speaker and his “Posts” on LinkedIn can be viewed here. Poetry; short articles; autobiographical blog; excerpts from books; and “Philosophize: A Ten Minute Write.”

For a list of all of Francis’ books published by En Route Books and Media, click here.

See Francis’ other books, too, entitled Scripture: A Unique Word, From Truth and truth: Volume I-Faithful Reason, From Truth and truth: Volume II: Faith and Reason in Dialogue, From Truth and truth: Volume III: Faith is Married Reason.

He has earned a BA Div (Hons), MA in Catholic Theology, PGC in Biblical Studies, PGC in Higher Education, and an MA in Marriage and Family (Distinction).

Enjoy these additional articles by Francis Etheredge:

OTHER CATHOLIC PRACTICAL THEOLOGY BOOKS

The Tie between Violence and Values by Dcn. Jack Sullivan

The Tie between Violence and Values by Dcn. Jack Sullivan

The Tie between Violence and Values by Deacon Jack Sullivan In The Tie Between Violence and Values, Deacon Jack Sullivan examines the growing crisis of violence, moral decline, and spiritual emptiness in modern society. Drawing on decades of experience as a trial...

read more
Journeying towards Self-Mastery by Fr. Benjamin Bala

Journeying towards Self-Mastery by Fr. Benjamin Bala

Journeying towards Self-Mastery by Fr. Benjamin Bala In this inspiring and deeply personal guide, Catholic priest Benjamin Bala explores the transformative journey of self-mastery. Rooted in Scripture, Church teaching, and practical wisdom, Bala challenges readers to...

read more
Awaken My Love: Vol. 1, Inner Healing by Zach Engelbert

Awaken My Love: Vol. 1, Inner Healing by Zach Engelbert

Awaken My Love: Vol. 1, Inner Healing by Zach Engelbert This book presents a structured Catholic approach to spiritual restoration, integrating scriptural reflection, personal inventories, and guided prayers. The author outlines a stepwise process addressing trauma,...

read more
Restoring the Temple of Your Body by Laura Ercolino

Restoring the Temple of Your Body by Laura Ercolino

Restoring the Temple of Your Body: Christian Expressive Arts to Facilitate Healing of Body Image & Relationship with Food by Laura Ercolino Restoring the Temple of Your Body is a prayerful, therapeutic workbook that integrates Christian expressive arts with...

read more
New Insight into Seeing the Holy Spirit at Work in Your Life: God’s Invisible Realities Seen in Your Spiritual Mirror—How to Have Better Discernment; Better Recognize the Holy Spirit; Better Understand the Will of God by Annette Hills

New Insight into Seeing the Holy Spirit at Work in Your Life: God’s Invisible Realities Seen in Your Spiritual Mirror—How to Have Better Discernment; Better Recognize the Holy Spirit; Better Understand the Will of God by Annette Hills

New Insight into Seeing the Holy Spirit at Work in Your Life: God's Invisible Realities Seen in Your Spiritual Mirror—How to Have Better Discernment; Better Recognize the Holy Spirit; Better Understand the Will of God by Annette Hills Have you ever questioned what God...

read more
The Gift of Motherhood

The Gift of Motherhood

The Gift of Motherhood by A. Young Mother The Gift of Motherhood is a compassionate, accessible guide affirming the dignity of every human life from conception. Blending clear explanations of fetal development with gentle support for women facing unplanned pregnancies...

read more
En Défense de la Dignité Humaine par Marie Brousseau

En Défense de la Dignité Humaine par Marie Brousseau

En Défense de la Dignité Humaine: Une Perspective Catholique sur l'Identité du Genre, l'Avortement et le Relativisme par Marie Brousseau Dans ces essais, Marie Brousseau, enseignante et essayiste catholique canadienne, aborde les controverses morales les plus...

read more
Companion to Becoming Magdalene by Jennifer Ristine

Companion to Becoming Magdalene by Jennifer Ristine

Jennifer Ristine interviewed Liz Tabish, the actress who plays Mary Magdalene on The Chosen. Click play on the video below.Companion to Becoming Magdalene: Journaling and Shared Group Discussion, a spiritual exercises guidebook by Jennifer Ristine Companion to...

read more
To a Younger Brother by Fr. Eric Gilhooly, LC

To a Younger Brother by Fr. Eric Gilhooly, LC

To a Younger Brother by Fr. Eric Gilhooly, LC Father Eric Gilhooly, LC has written To a Younger Brother as a very practical and encouraging book for seminarians. The book uses contemporary book, movie, and song examples to offer insightful and realistic advice for...

read more
Currents of Water: A Widow’s Walk with Jesus and Mary

Currents of Water: A Widow’s Walk with Jesus and Mary

Wendy Forest presenting Currents of Water at the Mackinaw Valley Vineyard, July 20, 2025Currents of Water: A Widow's Walk with Jesus and Mary by Wendy Forest Currents of Water is a deeply personal and spiritual reflection on grief, faith, and healing. Following her...

read more
Going Solo? Encouraging Single Catholics by Anne Stokes

Going Solo? Encouraging Single Catholics by Anne Stokes

Going Solo: Encouraging Single Catholics by Anne Stokes In a world that often equates fulfillment with marriage and family, Going Solo: Encouraging Single Catholics offers a refreshing and faith-centered perspective on the joys, challenges, and spiritual purpose of...

read more
The Three Ways: Catholic Spiritual Journey

The Three Ways: Catholic Spiritual Journey

The Three Ways: Catholic Spiritual Journey by Julie McPhillips, OCDS Today, you are invited exactly where you are to consider that your life is on a spiritual journey Home to God. Each is God’s planned creation, and Jesus is “The Way” to our final destination—Eternal...

read more
Transgenderism: A Question of Identity by Francis Etheredge

Transgenderism: A Question of Identity by Francis Etheredge

Transgenderism: A Question of Identity by Francis Etheredge We live in difficult times as there are enormous advantages to the internet and, at the same time, profound problems with its use. Is it a distorting mirror or is a true reflection of who we are? On the one...

read more