• We believe – a Christian LGBT creed

    Things are changing so fast – it became socially unacceptable some time ago in many circles to give voice to prejudice against LGBT people. It is becoming unacceptable to reject marriage for same-sex couples. And now it is becoming a religious act to oppose the criminalization of gay folk.

    Perhaps we need a short summary of what we believe. Do we need an LGBT Creed?

    We believe
    that everyone is made in the image and likeness of God

    and that nothing can take that likeness away.
    We believe that Jesus Christ
    brought a message of freedom, integrity and salvation for all.
    We believe in the Holy Spirit
    who brings delight, joy, liberation
    and holy common sense to the people of God.

    We believe in the church
    and are committed to remaining a part of it.
    We believe discrimination, prejudice and the criminalization
    of LGBT people to be sinful.

    We believe that God’s abundant grace is leading the church towards
    the full acceptance of God’s gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people.
    We know the grace of God in the sacraments
    and believe that all the sacraments are given for all of the people of God.
    We believe that where God calls people into marriage
    they are called to a way of life based on
    love, joy, tenderness, faithfulness, permanence and stability.

    We believe that human rights are part of a divine mandate for justice
    that  is the birthright of all people.

    What do you think?

    [By the way, don’t forget that there’s a retreat for gay and bi men in March that I’m co-leading – bookings can be made online here: www.retreat.maniple.co.uk]

2 responses to “ACC-19 – The Anglican Consultative Council in Belfast”

  1. Tim Chesterton Avatar

    Thank you for this encouraging account!

  2. Philip Groves Avatar
    Philip Groves

    Kelvin – I recognise everything your write.
    I have not commented on the nonsense of the Nairobi-Cairo Proposals becsue I knew they were written from a deep ignorance of the reality of the Anglican Communion and would be rejected.
    I wish I could have been with you it is so inspiring.
    As ever you write with such beauty about a beautiful mystery. The Anglican Communion is so flawed and imperfect, it has no great internal logic, but it is saved by our God who loves friendship (bonds of affection/konoina/loving your neighbour who can be a ‘Samaritan).

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