Kirk decision welcomed by LGBT charity

Next steps and further decisions still awaited from Church of Scotland general assembly

Stonewall Scotland warmly welcomes the decision by the Church of Scotland to allow the ordination of gay and lesbian ministers.  Carl Watt, Director of the charity, said:

“We hope today’s decision signals the start of the Kirk demonstrating a commitment to fairness, equality and dignity on this issue. 

Our research has shown that people of faith are no more likely to be prejudiced towards gay people and same-sex relationships than anyone else. Reverend Scott Rennie was inducted as the first openly gay minister in the Church of Scotland two years ago in the face of strong opposition from some quarters – yet supported by his own Aberdeen congregation. 

Although we await further decisions from the assembly and details on the next steps, we hope that in thirty years’ time this will be regarded as a storm in a teacup.”

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Notes
• Stonewall Scotland works to achieve equality and justice for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.
• Stonewall research quoted includes Living Together (an attitude survey of British people, 2007), Love thy Neighbour (research report into what people of faith really think about homosexuality, 2008)