The Sins of the Fathers

Raising kids in a same-sex union

(June 22, 2009 Newsweek)
Lisa Miller

Finished Reading: 06.2009

As the Religion Editor of Newsweek magazine, Lisa Miller often pokes at Christianity with a long stick, thinking she pats it firmly on the shoulder. Often, metal armor is required. In her recent piece on same sex adopting couples, she brings up a dilemma confronting prospective same sex parents. The issue is that some same sex couples want to raise their children with religion, but how do they reconcile their homosexuality with a religion that doesn't recognize their role as parents?

Miller hints that some might find it puzzling that homosexuals would even want to be a part of the church, and in particular she writes about the Catholic Church. Obviously comfortable with their lifestyle, these homosexuals are trying to find an entitled place in a religion that doesn't take comfort in them, and which they do not understand. She references a gay man who is proud to see his children baptized in the Catholic Church. He is proud to see his daughter take Holy Communion, and the sight is to him a beauty and a joy. He is likewise proud of his homosexuality.

I applaud not he, but the Catholic adoption agency that chose to shut its doors rather than comply with mandatory non-discrimination laws regarding same sex parent adopting rights. This organization could not reconcile the civil law with God's law, and chose wisely the higher authority. Less wise is the choice of ignorant homosexuals who don't recognize that their problem with the church and homosexuality is that they are sinners who embrace their sin. But Christianity is to follow Christ; it is not the all-inclusive feel good club of Me. If they would embrace a new life in Christ, there need be no confliction. Then again, this article reminds us that there is a vast divide between religion and true faith, as the name of Jesus isn't even mentioned once. At least Miller got her title right.

Let us not seek for what we can get the Church to do, but rather let us seek after Jesus.

From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation. The old has passed away, behold, the new has come. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

from 2 Corinthians chapter 5