Whereas, Christianity’s traditionally hostile view towards
homosexuals and homosexual behavior has been a source of inhospitality, causing
our homosexual brothers and sisters not only to feel unwelcome, but also
devalued, invisible, and shamed; and many have left our fellowship; and the loss
of these individuals deprives us of their unique witness, ministry, and gifts,
making our community poorer by their absence; and
Whereas, We find that the few passages of scripture that
suggest homosexuality is incompatible with Christian life reflect a cultural
setting that did not understand homosexuality rather than speaking the truth of
the gospel; and the overwhelming witness of scripture is that God’s love is
universal and is showered on each person without regard to sexual orientation;
and
Whereas, Community of Christ has never taught that the
scriptures are inerrant nor that they should be interpreted literally; and
Whereas, The church has been instructed (Doctrine and
Covenants 163:3b) to “Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious
trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purpose of God;” and
Whereas, we recognize the need in the lives of many
homosexuals for the ministry of the gospel, as well as the need of the church
for the ministry of homosexuals; therefore, be it
Resolved, That the church affirms that homosexual,
bisexual, and transgendered persons are fully welcome in our fellowship; and be
it further
Resolved, That, where culturally acceptable,
jurisdictions of the church are encouraged to publish the following or similar
statement in appropriate media such as weekly bulletin, on posters, etc.:
“The community of Christ values
diversity and celebrates differences as part of God’s Creation. We welcome and
include persons from a variety of family structures, without regard to sexual
orientation or gender identity;” and be it further
Resolved, That, where culturally acceptable, leaders
are encouraged to contact homosexual, bisexual, and transgendered church members
who have been inactive and invite them to return.
