[PAA-Discuss] New US church leader says homosexuality no sin

[Sarah Gonzales]

Well put Kris,

I am the granddaughter of a Methodist minister, grew up in the  
church, etc... but my grandfather was a different religious sort, he  
was tolerant of everyone, including women, people of color and  
homosexuality. Many people don't realize that during WWII, the troops  
were segregated, not only by race, but also by religion to some  
degree. My grandfather is mentioned in a couple of books by name b/c  
of his stance on allowing everyone / anyone to worship in his  
"church", that included African Americans or anyone who wanted to. It  
is indeed sad to think that he was unique in that during such a  
tumultuous period in our history.

I wish he were alive today for me to discuss this issue of organized  
religion, as I too have lost heart in it for the most part, but I do  
try to live my life by the Christian principals I was taught and for  
me, they do hold value.

For me, this issue boils down to 2 easy to understand points.

1. I believe it's an issue of equality, plain and simple. Equality  
for all regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation.

2. I don't believe it's the federal, state or local government's job  
to tell me who I can or cannot marry or have a relationship with. If  
many of the Libertarian Republicans would think of the issue in this  
context, they wouldn't support these policies either! So much for  
"small government" and keeping the government out of our business.

but... I commend this bishop for taking a stand for equality. I am  
quite anxious to hear what comes out of the Vatican on this one. In  
my view, I am hopeful that it will act to splinter these religious  
groups so as to reduce the influence they are wielding over so many  
citizens of this country.

my $.02....
later,