Why is the Church mum on gay rights?
published: Saturday | October 30, 2004

THE EDITOR, Sir:

WITH ALL the kerfuffle about gay rights and the lyrics of dancehall music, I am yet to hear the remarks of the Church (who are ever-ready to condemn homosexuality) on the issue of a homosexual's right to live. We know that the Church condemns the issue of homosexuality as it relates to the teachings of the Bible. But my question to the "Church" is; do homosexuals have the right to live, albeit in sin. Or, does anyone, even in the name of God, have the right to threaten the life of a homosexual. Does the "church" condone 'anti-gay lyrics', lyrics that ask that 'fire' (damnation I presume) be brought to homosexuals, lyrics that suggest that homosexuals be 'boom-bi-bied' or shot in their heads?

Is it not the preaching of the Church that God will do the final judgement? If homosexuality is wrong, what of hatred, and intolerance, and aggression? I would love to see a statement from prominent and respected church leaders that read homosexuality is a sin, but, homosexuals do have the right to live. And to be judged by God, not man. I trust that the relevant authorities will take the responsibility of making some long-awaited sense of the issue.

For too long, the Bible has been used as a tool to support lyrics that promote hate and violence against our brothers and sisters. Please help put the anger to rest.

I am etc.,

ANN O.N. AMOS

annonamos@hotmail.com