Correct me if I'm wrong but what it boils down to in ANY church is doctrine & set of beliefs.
Most Christian denominations believe homosexuality, in & of itself, to be inherently wrong. Well I should clarify..the "acting on it" is what goes against church doctrine, not ones inclination (Sodom & Gomorrah..rooted in this biblical reference).
So again, therefore, following the Bible & church teaching, living such "lifestyle" is deemed sinful (added to many other sinful areas of conduct. In fact, no greater or lesser in terms of gravity--sin is sin & I suspect it might just be Catholics that separate Cardinal--mortal sin from venial sin).
One can argue all day if one feels they are wrong (doesn't much matter for sake of conversation. Everyone has a right to believe whatever they so choose, so long as it hurts no one) but again, a system of beliefs goes hand in hand with any religion & to my knowledge, this one is basically a given in most Christian sects. Considering that, I've never been able to logically understand various seemingly new-age "all encompassing" branches that incorporate "admittedly active" homosexuals from leading their churches.
Welcoming everyone into a church with open arms, yes...absolutely follows their teachings (in their very creed it's believed everyone's a sinner to one extent or another & also that God's Mercy surpasses his judgment) but---think about it closely--to openly defy their own church teachings by having such persons as their "role leaders" & in position of authority (pastor or whatever) makes NOT one bit of sense.
No lie, gotta admit, that will always perplex me (because there's NO denouncing something you, at the same time, HOLD UP as a model. That can't be done. You lose all credibility & are basically, rightfully, a joke).
All I can conclude --since I have NO insight to explain this odd quandary--is many churches want members (& thus, appear to celebrate inclusion) so desperately, they will sell their own souls to achieve such. Ah...the irony!
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MovieHoliks
9 years ago
I agree completely with everything you said, but then if a Christian church is to go strictly with EVERY literal interpretation of the Bible- no mixing milk/meat, no eating pork, etc.. old testament stuff, yes, but get my drift-??
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shoutingagain
9 years ago
Definitely get your drift.
And certainly, a case can be made (of I bet EVERY church & maybe even every religion) there's something one can point to that's beyond ludicrous & illogical.
Probably why almost all religions take such a bad rap & beating on many occasion.
You're right again that many references, in particular, under attack are when examining Christianity & the Bible. Possibly more here due to the US being such a predominately Christian nation (but fact is, the same can be said as to the Quran or other models religions follow).
I think the only reply I've ever heard is we are NOT to take certainly all (or even much!) of it literally.
As for me, I can only speak to the Catholic faith in any depth and yet even that response there should naturally lead one to ask, "well why SOME literal interpretations & other's not, and furthermore, why would man know which one is which?" which frankly no explanation (at least to me) fully suffices (as it then sounds like those in charge decide what's "dogma", what is not & why.
OH and also---well, at least as a faithful practicing Catholic-- it has to be noted that we also steadfast believe that our Pope is at the helm & that he is infallible when speaking on all areas of faith & morals. NO chance of error because the belief is that he's indeed guided by our holy spirit & Jesus & not just speaking out as mere "man".
Again, obviously just in our faith (that is IF one embraces & acts in accordance with fullness of our church which is in fact, after all, what being a Catholic means). I'd say overall, no easy task. My observation is there's possibly FAR more "cafeteria Catholics" choosing what they want to follow or not. Maybe other religions are much the same...I kinda suspect so. If you area living a gay lifestyle & it's sinful in whatever your religion happens to be (take most Christian denominations), I think many just disregard that ONE part.
And yes, probably helps that parishioners can point to other scripture where incongruity appears to exist. That is not to agree or disagree with that argument but certainly site it as valid discussion.
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MovieHoliks
9 years ago
I was raised ELCA - "Catholic Light"- LOL. We are Catholic, just not ROMAN Catholic, so don't have to adhere to the Pope. I've found most Catholics I've known over the years (and my late grandma was one of them) to be pretty cool overall- for the most part very open-minded/liberal. Why do you think that is- with Catholicism being so strict-??
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shoutingagain
9 years ago
Never heard of ELCA, Catholic light, so will have to read more.
But I agree that many sects of all religions can vary.
My guess is that is NOT how the Catholic Church cares to function but as we both know, ppl will do what they want & often alter things to meet their own needs.
I honestly don't think that's how it's suppose to work but that's life.
To be honest, I'm moderate...not liberal, not conservative (depends on the issue as to where I fit in).
Personally, I also try my best to follow the teachings of my church (especially the "dogma" where we aren't suppose to quarrel) but no doubt, I'm also sorely lacking (and challenged!). Still I just endeavor daily to do the best I can.
I think most Catholic, even most Christians (& probably OTHER religious followers) are much the same (but that is not to excuse me but just my observations. The "lemming effect" is no rationalization for our choices!)
But like you, I know plenty of persons that self-identify as Catholic but aren't practicing the faith as it's dictated.
In the end, as I see it, who am I to judge? It's their life, they can choose to live as they see fit (I have NO issues unless someone hurts someone else---then it's all our business).
Appreciate your input greatly.
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