Firstly, does it?
Many members of churches across the world are publically saying sorry on behalf of the Church. My first recollection is from a Chicago Pride, seen here. This was an evocative image portrayed in literature at that time. Many within the LGBT+ community may not agree that the Church is there yet.
Many members of churches across the world are publically saying sorry on behalf of the Church. My first recollection is from a Chicago Pride, seen here. This was an evocative image portrayed in literature at that time. Many within the LGBT+ community may not agree that the Church is there yet.
The actual signs say this:
What is missing is that the Church needs to change. Saying sorry as a Christian isn't just a phrase but a transformation of actions, a u-turn. Is the Church prepared for this?
What's required?
The Church needs to adopt a pro-active stance to welcome and demonstrably show the love that it speaks about, that Love that Jesus showed to all. First and foremost it needs to look within and engage with those who still feel strongly that this is a sin. If this perception remains then the apologies seen above will mean nothing, the Church will continue to be criticised for its insincerity and another opportunity to welcome people will have been lost.
Fact: people are being hurt now.
We are seeing Shared Discussions within the Church of England, reported here in February in Pink News, and other denominations are moving towards seeking a discussion, despite the legal framework changing last year - when do Churches feel that they can move forward?
What is happening to people whilst they deliberate?
What's required?
The Church needs to adopt a pro-active stance to welcome and demonstrably show the love that it speaks about, that Love that Jesus showed to all. First and foremost it needs to look within and engage with those who still feel strongly that this is a sin. If this perception remains then the apologies seen above will mean nothing, the Church will continue to be criticised for its insincerity and another opportunity to welcome people will have been lost.
Fact: people are being hurt now.
We are seeing Shared Discussions within the Church of England, reported here in February in Pink News, and other denominations are moving towards seeking a discussion, despite the legal framework changing last year - when do Churches feel that they can move forward?
What is happening to people whilst they deliberate?
Over recent years virtual churches such as Diverse Church have supported hundreds of LGBT+ Christians across the UK when their own churches have not supported them. This is both tragic and wonderful.
Here, we are seeing an affirmation that God loves us all. They also had a big banner at London Pride which stated that 'We Are Sorry' but the individual flyers created great interest amongst the crowds that lined the procession throughout London.
Recently we have seen placards in Liverpool and other pride venues which also state the We Are Sorry.
Recently we have seen placards in Liverpool and other pride venues which also state the We Are Sorry.
Together with more discussions and study of the Bible in context, a far greater understanding of the issues facing the LGBT+ community and more of the Church practicing what it preaches about love and forgiveness, we will see continued progress.
Is that progress sufficiently fast enough for all those marginalised by the Church?
I'll leave you with the poem written last month.
May it be history soon, very soon.
Is that progress sufficiently fast enough for all those marginalised by the Church?
I'll leave you with the poem written last month.
May it be history soon, very soon.