Have said a while ago that this blog was mostly for some police and firefighters in a special police project.... But it has also been for officials in my church, at the headquarters in the USA.... Shortly after I began writing the blog, I notified some of their offices and I seemed to get a positive reaction.... I've heard a few hints, here and there, over the years....
Today, I'd like to write something especially for the church in this post.... I had thought I'd covered all the issues but it seems there's one more....
In our North American society, we now have "gay marriage, with religious exemptions...." The conservative churches don't have to condone gay marriage within their group.... But I'd like to appeal to the church to respect the choice of gays OUTSIDE of the church....
Our church believes that every person will one day face the judgment of God.... However, we don't judge other people, ourselves, and we don't force them to do what we--or even God--wants...! How do we know if some gays, on their journey of life, might BENEFIT from entering a gay marriage--whether it's for a short-term or a longer term...? Of course, in our church we can preach about our standards and beliefs...but in my opinion we can't demand the same of all the public.... Could we not accept them how they are, and respect what they'd like to do--because it's their choice...?
The church sometimes comes in direct contact with married gays because of employment--for example, custodial services.... And the law may say that family health benefits have to be paid.... The church has sometimes resisted these kinds of actions...and from what I've seen and heard, these attitudes are hurtful to gays.... They want things to change....
The church headquarters in the USA have a team of lawyers who work for them.... We had an article about them in our Canadian church magazine not too long ago.... The head counsel is Canadian, if I'm not mistaken, and he handled a religious liberty case for me many years ago.... He seems to be a very sensible and experienced person, from what I read and from my own situation.... Maybe the church officials would like to discuss my concerns with their lawyers...?
Some police have spoken directly to church leaders, at times, and they could feel free to refer people to this blog post, if they wish...? I'd really like for the leaders to consider if they can adjust their opinions...? We can accept "gay marriage, with religious exemptions," and accept people's right to choose outside of the church.... If necessary, I'll continue writing a little more (when I have time)....
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