My Church

As I've mentioned in a previous post, I recently prepared a written statement to be given out at my church on the subject of gay marriage.  My church is one of the ones which are quite conservative and which take a stand on homosexuality.  Some people who read my statement were very positive, including the pastor who was there at the time.  Both he and his wife said they learned to see the topic differently than they had before and they appreciated my effort.  A few other people were less positive but they haven't stopped being friendly to me.  In the past, my particular local church had a split because of homosexuality.  At this time, we have a new pastor and I've prepared an amendment for my statement.--Will see how it gets accepted?  But I probably won't change my own views, whether people agree with me or not.  [Am referring to the idea of supporting "gay marriage with religious exemptions," rather than supporting only "civil unions."  In my case, and as I've written in this blog, I've always supported the full equivalent-to-married legal rights, regardless of what name I was calling it.] 

Religious Exemptions, or Not???

Do religious exemptions apply to individuals who provide supplies or services for weddings?  No, the exemptions only apply to those who officiate marriages.  For example, florists, photographers, and caterers, etc. aren't allowed to refuse service based on conscience.  If these people have concerns, I'd suggest for them to support their churches and support their fellow members and guests with their issues....  [Not to say we should pressure anyone to change.--It doesn't work.]  And otherwise, I believe we should show some compassion for gay couples and not object to their efforts at making stable homes together.  *** Can conservative Christians support religious exemptions while at the same time showing support for gay marriage?  Yes, I believe it's possible....  [People can read more in my blogs if they wish to know more.]  *** If people think I'm mistaken, they're welcome to give me their feedback.  But I believe I've gone over the issues quite thoroughly. 

My Mother's Views

My mother is quite elderly and is becoming more frail but I've discussed my views on gay marriage with her.  Earlier, she helped me come up with the term "legal partnership," although it may have been used elsewhere by others?  More recently, I've prepared a written statement on gay marriage to be shared with members of our church and I wanted to know what my mom thought of it?  She read it over quickly and then said she agreed with "what the Bible says."  I asked her which part of the Bible she was referring to?--And she said, "'It is not good that man should be alone!'"  So, I thought that was a good answer!  And I guess she wanted to agree with what I'd written about gay marriage!  [She needs a slight update at this time but I don't think she'll disapprove.]  ***  Otherwise, my mom has said she's too old to deal with my legal matters any more.  She seems to say something to her friends and relatives, however, and I haven't always been sure what she was talking about?--She didn't seem to want to tell me everything!?  But at least I wanted to be clear on what she was saying about gay marriage.  Some people have also had an interest in her views, since we're both religious people and whatever.