The Lutheran Church of Australia
and Homosexuality

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The denomination's Commission on Social Questions prepared a church statement
on homosexuality which was adopted in principle by their General Synod in its
1975 convention. It was adopted in its final wording by the Commission in
1975-NOV.
The statement:
 | differentiates between homosexual orientation (which they term sexual propensity) and
homosexual behavior |
 | considers homosexual orientation to be beyond the control of an individual. |
 | accepts the Kinsey 7 point rating scale, which recognizes exclusive heterosexuality,
exclusive homosexuality and 5 intermediate points. |
 | claims that there is little or no evidence that it is genetically caused. (The
currently
available research data concerning inheriting a gay orientation was unknown in 1975. They
attribute the cause to early childhood parenting influences.) |
 | acknowledges that treatment or punishment of homosexuals with the intent of producing
change is not productive. |
 | comments: "...the homosexual quickly learns secrecy, shame, fear, guilt, and
loneliness. If his homosexuality becomes known, he may be made to feel the hostile
rejection of family and friends, employers, and even the church. The alienation of the
homosexual from society, may cause him/her to seek friendship and sexual gratification
with other homosexuals, and may result in short-term or promiscuous relationships." |
 | states that the Bible is silent on homosexual orientation. |
 | concludes that the Church cannot "condemn or judge" homosexual
orientation. However, homosexual behavior is against the will of God. All gays and
lesbians must practice abstinence. |
 | rejects the social tendency towards tolerance of homosexual behavior. |
 | completely accepts gays and lesbians "into the people of God." |

Reference:
- "Homosexuality," at: http://www.lca.org.au/csbq/pdf/homosexuality.pdf
Copyright 1999, 2000 by Ontario Consultants on
Religious Tolerance
Latest update: 2001-MAY-8
Author: B.A. Robinson


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