In response to the Opinion piece, “The facts on homosexuality are in the Bible,” the writer’s argument seems flawed. The true question is, as noted by Reverend Irene Monroe, does one follow religious texts with blind obedience or reasoned faith? The fact is, many Christians identify as non-heterosexual or are allies—those who support and advocate for LGBTQI++ rights. Christian denominations also vary on their beliefs on homosexuality. For example, the Presbyterian Church allows pastors to officiate same-sex ceremonies (where legal) and corrected the definition of marriage to be inclusive (between “two people”). Given the diversity of interpretations and religious beliefs on this topic, “the facts of homosexuality” are up for interpretation and are currently being debated. For example, Pope Francis recently said, “If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to judge?”
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The fact is, the Bible has been used to deny women equal rights in our country and to enslave African Americans and not allow them equal rights for hundreds of years. Today, it is being used to deny non-heterosexual people from equal rights as well. One message from the Bible that loudly resonates is that Christianity is about loving one another and not passing judgment and condemnation. It is about having a personal relationship with God and needing to be recognized and treated with dignity, equality, and respect.
If anyone is interested in learning more about this debate, please watch For the Bible Tells Me So for a very intelligent and thoughtful documentary on homosexuality and the Bible.
Catherine Massey and Emily Keener
Department of Psychology
Thank you for this reasoned and insightful approach to a difficult topic. I will watch For The Bible Tells Me So to learn more… I see it’s on Netflix.