by Chris Alexion, Copyright September 28, 2005, all rights reserved. 164 views
PHILADELPHIA, PA–The Philadelphia Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church (USA) yesterday drafted a controversial statement regarding bigotry and tolerance. The statement includes a declaration that homophobic men and women are born inherently bigoted and thus should not be condemned for their behavior. The controversial lines include the following: "We affirm God's creation, including the lifestyle of bigotry evinced by fundamentalists, and insist that these men and women, as God's image, are to be valued both for who they are and what they can contribute to the progress of the church."
The resolution, according to the Rev. Jane Wilcox, is a matter of simple fairness. "For too long evangelicals have been ridiculed and condemned, forced by the censure of public opinion to remain silent, to practice their lifestyle secretly. This statement is all about affirming and empowering these people to continue to disagree with sodomy if they choose," she said.
Other mainline denominations, plagued by the conflict between those who endorse and oppose homosexuality, have taken notice of the decision. Bishop Garth Dunn of the Episcopal church said, "This decision is long overdue, and I hope our church will soon follow suit. Though some might argue that since opposing homosexuality is wrong, we ought not to tolerate it, I see no reason why tolerance should not be applied to homophobes as well as homosexuals."
"I am extremely pleased with the decision," said Carl Roberts, ACLU lawyer. "We've championed the free speech and dignity of fundamentalists for several years now, and it's encouraging to see this progress. Much work remains, though," he said.
Some members of the PCUSA, however, were not supportive of the resolution. "Something doesn't make sense here," said the Rev. Steve Axton, a dissenting committee member. "I think we've been screwed."
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