We are all used to hearing the debate on gays and religion. It’s usually a conversation that people either tiptoe around or take a firm stand on. Regardless of the approach, it is a very touchy subject with most people.
Everyone has their own views and beliefs as to what is right. So does the Episcopal Diocese of San Joaquin, who cut their ties with the Episcopal Church this past week. The reason for the split?
Disagreements about the role of gays and lesbians in the church.
Just when you thought the issue of gays and church couldn’t get any deeper, it did. This is the first time any Episcopal church has split over theological issues.
The idea of a church’s splitting up isn’t something new. It’s actually quite common. I mean, look back on our own U.S. history. We left England for religious freedom. The Lutherans split from the Catholic Church. It’s not a new phenomenon, but what is new is the reason for this particular split.
Past reasons for diocese’s splitting up has been due to certain churches not wanting to ordain women. Why is it that women, gays and other traditionally marginalized groups are always cast in such negative light?
Is our society still so blind that they are only seeing “white male America?” It seems like the time is coming to realize that things can’t simply be wished away or under the rug. We all need to realize and accept that gays and lesbians are just like you and I. They are entitled to the same respects and privileges that all Americans have.
The church splitting is a good thing overall, for everyone. I think that this is going to ruffle the feathers of many people out there, but it’s a small important step for gays.
Who really wants to be taught something they disagree with? The freedom to choose if you want to be taught something or not in church is now your decision. You can decide if you want to be part of a liberal or conservative Episcopal church.
Religion is, after all, a common set of beliefs and practices. Shouldn’t you be at your house of worship with people who share your same viewpoints? Church should be a place where people can go and get the peace, guidance and love they are searching for. Everyone does that in their own ways, whether they are in an organized setting like church or not.
The reality is that the gay community is here to stay and the church is not happy with it. Separating those who have conflicting views may be the best solution for the meantime. That is, until everyone can agree to disagree and respect all other views.
Karen Burrola is a senior journalism major and a contributing writer for the Daily Forty-Niner.
