Soapbox

It seems there has been much controversy surrounding President Boyd K. Packer’s remarks at General Conference nearly 2 weeks ago. And while I fully support him as an Apostle I can understand why many were unsettled by how he addressed the subjects he chose to speak on. Unfortunately, his words were somewhat ambiguous leaving many people (both inside and outside the church) to misinterpret what was being said, and how it was being said.

• Was he talking about Gay marriage?
• Was he referring to people in homosexual relationships?
• Does this include faithful church members who experience same-sex attraction?
• Or was he referring to sin/temptations in general?

Since then, there has been much Church bashing, and equally as much Gay bashing (by members of the Church, who should really know better).

Fortunately, the Church has found it appropriate to step up and clarify its stance on many things. This was released today by a representative in the Church. Everyone, on both sides of this issue, should read it… everyone:

This past week we have all witnessed tragic deaths across the country as a result of bullying or intimidation of gay young men.  We join our voice with others in unreserved condemnation of acts of cruelty or attempts to belittle or mock any group or individual that is different – whether those differences arise from race, religion, mental challenges, social status, sexual orientation or for any other reason.  Such actions simply have no place in our society.

Our parents, young adults, teens and children should therefore, of all people, be especially sensitive to the vulnerable in society and be willing to speak out against bullying or intimidation whenever it occurs, including unkindness toward those who are attracted to others of the same sex. This is particularly so in our own Latter-day Saint congregations. Each Latter-day Saint family and individual should carefully consider whether their attitudes and actions toward others properly reflect Jesus Christ’s second great commandment – to love one another.

As a church, our doctrinal position is clear: any sexual activity outside of marriage is wrong, and we define marriage as between a man and a woman. However, that should never, ever be used as justification for unkindness. Jesus Christ, whom we follow, was clear in His condemnation of sexual immorality, but never cruel.  His interest was always to lift the individual, never to tear down.

Further, while the Church is strongly on the record as opposing same-sex marriage, it has openly supported other rights for gays and lesbians such as protections in housing or employment.

The Church’s doctrine is based on love. We believe that our purpose in life is to learn, grow and develop, and that God’s unreserved love enables each of us to reach our potential. None of us is limited by our feelings or inclinations. Ultimately, we are free to act for ourselves.

The Church recognizes that those of its members who are attracted to others of the same sex experience deep emotional, social and physical feelings. The Church distinguishes between feelings or inclinations on the one hand and behavior on the other. It’s not a sin to have feelings, only in yielding to temptation.

There is no question that this is difficult, but Church leaders and members are available to help lift, support and encourage fellow members who wish to follow Church doctrine. Their struggle is our struggle. Those in the Church who are attracted to someone of the same sex but stay faithful to the Church’s teachings can be happy during this life and perform meaningful service in the Church. They can enjoy full fellowship with other Church members, including attending and serving in temples, and ultimately receive all the blessings afforded to those who live the commandments of God.

God’s universal fatherhood and love charges each of us with an innate and reverent acknowledgement of our shared human dignity.  We are to love one another. We are to treat each other with respect as brothers and sisters and fellow children of God, no matter how much we may differ from one another.

Like I said before, I am so glad that the Church found it necessary to clarify its stance. I just wish what was stated in this press release could have been said over the pulpit at General Conference.

We need to stop the contention, stop the hating, stop the bashing, and this includes speaking negatively of others in our Sacrament meetings, Sunday School classes, Relief Societies and Priesthood quorums.

I would hope that we all try and understand each other a little more. Only then, can the healing begin.