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Editorials Rev. Roger Butts: God on Diversity: "It is good" |
Tuesday, December 16, 2003
Nov. 18 2003 was a great, historic day for those who value human rights. The Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts ruled that sexual minorities have the right to marry. I join with the 450 members strong Religious Coalition for Freedom to Marry: We believe in the inherent right of gay and lesbian couples to be given the rights, protection and legal responsibilities under the law.
Undoubtedly there will be clergy who argue that the Bible forbids gay
relationships. A few thoughts. First, the Bible is full of prohibitions no
longer relevant in today's world. There are rules dealing with the punishment of
stubborn children (stoned to death by the elders). We all choose what parts of
the biblical witness we follow or not.
Second, historically the Bible has been misused to prohibit relationships in
unimaginable ways, particularly interracial marriages. Until the Supreme Court
decision in 1967 allowing interracial marriage, many argued the bible forbids
such coupling. Few believe this today.
The Court in Massachusetts found that the marriage restriction is "rooted in
persistent prejudices against persons who are homosexual." When persistent
prejudice is at issue, the religious community must respond, in the direction of
justice grounded in faith, which calls us to support everyone's full humanity,
everyone's ability to love, and everyone's value in the world.
If the Bible must be used to understand this issue, remember this bit of poetry
from Genesis: Surveying creation--in all its diversity--God said simply, "It is
good."
Unitarian Church
Davenport
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