any doubt about a decision I must make, or I am unsure of, then scripture
with reason and tradition is the route for me to find a sound solution.
I freely acknowledge that there are denominational differences between my
fellow ministers; however, from Orthodox, and Roman Catholic, to
Reformed/conservative church leaders we all agree that Jesus died for sin
and rose again, because we can find the evidence in scripture.
I have been re-reading texts on human sexuality recently because I was
aware of the discussions and the vote about to happen at General Synod this
year.
Also it is incumbent up on all who teach and minister to (try) keep up to date
with important issues and perspectives within the theological world
discussions.
I have prayed and reflected about my own belief that Same Sex Marriage
challenges the authority of scripture, and I was prepared to change my view
if I found anything within my research that persuaded me that the biblical
teaching on marriage can be other than between one man and one woman; I
found nothing of theological substance that would change my mind.
I am not closed to the possibility that there may be a point in time that I am
proved wrong, and I am still very keen to learn from anyone who disagrees
with me (about most things). I do not need anyone to agree with my
viewpoint; and you do not need to choose sides.
Now I want to make it VERY CLEAR that I have absolutely no condemnation
of people who are LGBT and I will never judge or turn away from anyone
who identifies as gay, neither do I mean that some humans are more
righteous or sinful than others; I along with all humanity am saved by grace
and will always be in need of God’s restoring love.
I am a pastoral priest and any person seeking or in need of ministr