Brechiners back repeal of gay ministers ban
The people of Brechin — where Scott Rennie served as a minister for over a decade — appear to be united in their belief that the Church of Scotland should not refuse to ordain those in same-sex relationships.
Alex, Clare, Bill and Jacqueline.
- By Geraldine McKelvie
- Published in the Courier : 26.04.11
- Published online : 26.04.11 @ 03.30pm
Mr Rennie left his post at Brechin Cathedral in 2009 after his historic appointment to Queen's Cross Church in Aberdeen divided the Kirk.
And some of those in the Angus town voiced their support for the abolition of a two-year ban on ordaining those who are open about their involvement in homosexual relationships.
Shop owner Bill Thomson (56) said he felt it was important to "live and let live."
Mr Thomson, a practising Catholic, added that there should be no barriers in place provided the ministers concerned were honest about their sexual orientation.
He said, "Unfortunately I recognise that my religion isn't perfect either and there have been a lot of problems.
"I don't think there should be a problem with having gay ministers — provided they tell everyone that they are in a same-sex relationship."
"It wouldn't be good for them to be in the closet and cover things up but if they are open and honest then there shouldn't be an issue."
Retired Alex Gibb (66) agreed.
He said, "I think when it comes to things like this people should please themselves. I don't have a problem with it personally, to me it doesn't matter."
Administrator Jacqueline Arbuthnott added that it was perhaps appropriate for the Kirk to "move with the times."
The 21-year-old said, "We have to remember that the Bible was written thousands of years ago and things are a lot different now."
"I wouldn't say I was religious but I really don't see why it should be a big problem."
Her view was shared by 41-year-old charity superviser Clare Stewart, who suggested that the Church should not have the right to interfere in the private lives of ministers.
She said, "I don't see what this has got to do with the Church at all. I really cannot see what difference it makes."
12.01am - 27.04.2011 stevemd2 - Baltimore, USA Report This
iTS ALL OVER but the shouting re gay marriage in W. Europe. this article is just another example of true Christians following Jesus commandment to love thy neighbor as thyself, and He didn't say exclude gay people. While the USA is having so many problems. thanks to the anything but christians
12.07am - 27.04.2011 stevemd2 - Baltimore, USA Report This
And I'l add - it only takes one or a few good people to change the environment. There are so many good people, in the USA etc who support gays being treated equally. But they need to "come out" and make public their support. thats how you change society for the better
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