History and Background

Why "Jonathan's Circle"?

An archetypal story of the love of men for each other, the tale of Jonathan and David in the Bible weaves together themes of friendship, divine providence, and self-giving, as well as the darker strains of a father’s jealousy, father-son competition, and mental illness.  Jonathan’s love for David led the two of them to establish a covenant.  One of the most moving scenes in the story, perhaps in all of scripture, is Jonathan’s removing his armor piece by piece and giving it to David.  That image guides Jonathan’s Circle, where men permit and encourage their brothers to take off the armor that shields us from our deep emotional life and hides the Selves which are both strong and tender.

About Our Founder, Frank Dunn

Frank Gasque Dunn has a background combining literature, theology, liturgy, leadership development, and four decades of group work as facilitator, designer, and trainer.  With the degree of Doctor of Ministry and over forty years as priest, teacher, spiritual director, writer, and retreat leader, he currently is a “soul friend,” offering coaching, counseling, and consulting to individuals, groups, and organizations.  He served as Executive Director of Jonathan’s Circle until 2025.  

Some of the influences that led Frank to form Jonathan’s Circle include his own experience in Jungian analysis; his biography as a gay man living through marriage, fatherhood, divorce, and remarriage; his dedication to a radically inclusive expression of Christianity that affirms the universality of the divine life shared with all humanity; and his own discovery of bodily life, especially sexual expression, as a viable path leading to personal wholeness and union with Creator and all creation. 

Frank has been with his partner, Joseph Casazza, since 2006. They were married in the District of Columbia in 2011. Their marriage was blessed by The Right Reverend John Bryson Chane, then the Episcopal Bishop of Washington. They currently live in Cathedral City, CA.

About Our Executive Director,
Jon Carl Lewis

Jon Carl brings a wealth of talent, energy, and knowledge about male sexuality and spirituality. He also has considerable experience in organizational development and is a skilled and adept spiritual leader. We are very thrilled to have Jon Carl on board, and we look forward to working with him in order to provide our members with the programming, support, and community they need.

How Do I Join Jonathan's Circle?

Membership in Jonathan’s Circle is free. We have no membership dues, and no plans to institute any. We rely on modest fees to cover the cost of our programs and voluntary donations of money and time to support our mission. To join, simply subscribe to CIRCLING, our monthly e-zine. In there, you will find current Jonathan’s Circle-sponsored events and features such as poetry, photos, music, art, and books of interest to our members. The subscription form is below.