This issue was always going to be an emotive and contentious one. However, I think it important to try to see both sides of the debate here. Firstly, I totally support equal rights for same- sex couples and vehemently oppose prejudical treatment towards same- sex couples. I firmly believe that one's sexual orientation should not cause them to feel stigmatised in what is allegedly a "liberal" society. On the other hand, I can see the Church's concerns, especially at the local level, of performing same- sex marriages in local churches. One should remember that, to undertake this would contravene the core values and principles of many Christians. The purpose of marriage, in some people's views, is solely procreation. However, I suggest, that this is not the sole purpose of marriage, and that the unity between the couple is equally important. It seems that there is always going to be a great ambivalence between the Church and the public on this issue. As a Theology and Religious Studies student, I am well aware of the arguments presented in protest of these, and indeed some are very convincing. That being said, I think it is fundamentally important for religion to embrace modernity, as it has done previously, and at least accept that same- sex marriage is an increasigly common part of our lives and will likely continue to be so in the future. I respect the Church's views on this, and understand their concerns; but the question I should like to posit is this: if, as is commonly purported, God is all- loving, then might it not be that this love encompasses all of humanity? If this were the case, surely nobody should be discriminated against? I will be interested to see how this pans out- at both the local level and with regard to UK legislation and pratice.
Voice For Victims
Voice for Victims is a campaign aimed at promoting the rights of those affected by child sexual abuse.
