The minister of Sydney’s Pitt Street Uniting Church has declared homophobia to be sinful ahead of this year’s International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) on May 17.“Homophobia is a sin and in need of healing,” the Reverend Ian Pearson declared.
Pitt Street Church is committed to healing homophobia as its contribution to IDAHO and this will be the theme for its worship service this Sunday.
“Heterosexism, the idea that heterosexual people are superior to homosexual people, is like racism. Prejudice robs us all of our common humanity,” Pearson said.
“Discrimination against gay and lesbian people is an example of alienation from each other. Might it be based on fears about our own sexuality?”
Pearson said his views had changed over time and all Christian people could take a stand against homophobia.
“The fundamental message of Christianity is about the unconditional love and grace of God we see in the person of Jesus,” he said.
“My reading of the Bible, ministry over 30 years, and my life and family experiences, have convinced me that the sacred includes people of diverse gender identities.
“This includes those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex people, who live into their identity.”
Pearson said the Pitt Street Church sought to welcome people of all sexual orientations and sex and gender identities.
“There is no role in our congregation which cannot be occupied by people who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or intersex,” he said. “As a community we are enriched by keeping the doors open.”
All are welcome at the service.
info: IDAHO Service of Worship, Sunday, May 15, 10am, Pitt Street Uniting Church, 264A Pitt St, Sydney
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