Why Church shouldn’t reject same-s£x couples – Clergy
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has said it does not discriminate against couples of the same sex, even though it believes marriage should be between a man and a woman.
The church made its position known on Saturday at a press conference in Lagos organised to welcome two elders of the church, Apostle David Bernard and Patrick Kearon.
The leader of the Catholic Church and bishop of Rome, Pope Francis, had formally permitted Catholic priests to bless same-sex unions, leading to back-and-forth debate over what has now been termed controversial and a violation of biblical teachings.
Although the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is not a Catholic church, it said it provides counsel and teaches its members to show love and respect to people who are attracted to the same sex.
Speaking during the conference, Elder Bernard said, “We believe that marriage is between a man and woman. Now, for those who have same-sex attraction, we love them as brothers and sisters.
“We do not discriminate against them. We counsel and encourage our members to be loving to all. But we formally declared that marriage is between man and woman.”
Pope clarifies blessings for same-sex couples
The church, which was founded in 1830 but established in Nigeria in 1970, is led by its 17th prophet and apostle, Russell Nelson.
While advising Nigerians to imbibe dialogue across faiths, Kieron stated, “Dialogue between faith and people brings understanding. And we are very willing to take part in the dialogue. We are very willing to hold dialogue with all faiths.
My understanding is that it brings understanding and friendship.
“Lack of understanding leads to lack of trust. Conversation and dialogue lead to understanding, which brings trust. And we need trust in society. You will find us willing and eager to take part in dialogue with other faiths and other communities here in Nigeria.
“We preached the gospel. We believe we should love our neighbours and that we should help put neighbours in a way that the Saviour did. We are trying to do that, and you will see us in the coming years striving harder to be kind and loving to our neighbours,” he added.
(Our heritage reporter)
