For some parents, this may be the most difficult issue to face. For others, it's a non-issue.
It is true that some religions continue to condemn homosexuality. But even within these religions, there are respected leaders who believe that their church's position of condemnation is unconscionable.
In 1997, the U.S. Catholic bishops issued a pastoral statement urging parents to love and support their gay children. In a 1994 pastoral letter, the U.S. Episcopal bishops wrote, “As it can be for heterosexual persons, the experience of steadfast love can be for homosexual persons an experience of God.”
Many mainstream religions have now taken official stands in support of gay rights. Some have gone further. The Methodist Church, for example, has developed a network of reconciling congregations welcoming gays, lesbians andbisexuals. Since 1991, the United Church of Christ has had a denominational policy stating that sexual orientation should not be a barrier to ordination. In the Episcopal Church, the denomination's legislative body has declared that gay people have a full and equal claim with all other people upon the church.
You will still hear people quote the Bible in defense of their prejudice against gay people. But many Biblical scholars dispute any antigay interpretations of Biblical texts. The resources in the ’Religion’ section of this web site lists articles and references that can help you learn more about changing religious attitudes toward homosexuality.
Adapted from “Our Daughters and Sons: Questions and Answers for Parents of Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual People” written by PFLAG
Équipe AlterHéros
Julie-Maude Beauchesne
François Paquette
Dee Gamme
Samuel A.
Marion Téjédor