CHRISTIANS: Gays and Constitution

Chris Belt wrote a provocative letter about his views on Christianity and homosexuality. I feel compelled to make some comments about his misconceptions.

1. Mr. Belt condemns the Coeur d’Alene Press for their “liberal bias.” Wow, how did he find a liberal bias in this community? And how does he explain all of the other letters with “anti-gay” bias that have been printed in this paper?

2. He is uncomfortable that he might be labeled “homophobic,” just because he describes their behavior as “debauchery” and claims to have knowledge that God condemns their behavior. Chris, it kind of sounds like you might be “homophobic.”

3. He believes that the “gay lobby” is responsible for trying to “prosecute those who don’t share their distorted views.” Really? Who has been prosecuted? Perhaps he is speaking for the local minister who is begging someone to make him a martyr by suing him. Sorry, but there has been no prosecution or suit filed.

4. The agenda of legal homosexual unions seems to be a problem for Mr. Belt. He may fail to realize that multiple states have overturned laws banning gay unions because, in this country, everyone is entitled to freedom and liberty. Apparently some Christians think they should have the right to decide which people are denied their inalienable rights. Well, you are wrong, end of story. Every citizen has that right and those who are born gay do not choose to be gay; they are born that way with the same sexual drive that you and I were born with. They also have the same need for love, companionship and acceptance that we all share.

5. Mr Belt’s letter suggests that he knows God’s wishes. He might consider the fact that God did not author the book of Leviticus. While it might be based on early teachings of Moses, the book is believed to have gone through hundreds of years of editing. It reflects the teachings of Jewish priests but it would be a stretch to believe it was based on anything more than their own biases and practices. If you choose to accept that as God’s word, you might want to read the rest of the verses and see if you still qualify as “one of the chosen.”

GARY PETERSEN

Coeur d’Alene