Gay Rights Ordinance Divides Minister Groups
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TACOMA, Wash — The Tacoma Ministerial Alliance, a predominantly black group of 35 ministers, wants a gay rights ordinance abolished, while the Associated Ministries of Tacoma-Pierce County, a group of about 200 congregations, wants to preserve the law.
The two sides are split over how to apply biblical teachings to the issue.
“I know that discrimination is wrong,” said the Rev. Gregory Christopher, pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church and a member of both ministerial groups.
“But I believe that the Bible teaches we have a choice whether we’re going to be heterosexual or homosexual,” he said.
The Rev. David Alger, executive director of Associated Ministries, said that many members of his group believe that homosexuality is a sin, but that they believe more strongly that discrimination is wrong.
“We’re simply saying a person should not be denied any civil rights based on their sexual orientation,” Alger said.
The City Council approved the ordinance in April, banning discrimination against gays, lesbians, transvestites and people who undergo sex changes.
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