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Our Thanks is Due to Local Chapel - Op Ed

16/07/2018

A correspondent submitted this piece on the fact that fundamentalist religious groups are angry that there was a service of tolerance at the John Wesley Chapel ahead of Bristol Pride:  

"Many years ago, a Marxist friend told me that “civil wars are always the most violent and bitter”.  (This was at the time of the Yugoslav conflict, and it certainly was cruel, depraved and horrid).  It is true of politics too, as one can see from the history of the political left.  So, it was with interest that I learn of the fact that a gaggle of religious conservatives, Biblical literalist and general flat-earthers are this Monday hopping mad at the fact that – dear Lord! – there were affirming and progressive Christians at Pride. 

 

The ranting from the fundie media, such as the utterly wretched “Premier Christian Radio” network (which only ever gives airtime to very, very conservative Biblical groups) is quite instructive.  It’s almost as if they can just about nearly tolerate or accept the fact of godless atheists, humanists or evil pagans or spiritualists attending Pride.  They are, after all, all in a handcart to Hell.  But the fact that people who identify as Christian, who go to Church, who pray and try to live with faith are welcoming and accepting of LGBT people is a total anathema to them.  And they rant, pontificate and demonstrate clearly, that the dignified, quiet and very peaceful Christians at Pride Coalition has really gotten under their skin.  Indeed, there is little Christian in the behaviour of the fundamentalist groups who are ranged against the tolerant and progressive movement. 

The goths with their pentagram tattoos the fundies can cope with: they are doomed to roast and a toast.  But that not everyone who is Christian hates and seethes, now that REALLY sticks in their craw. 

 

It is therefore, incumbent on LGBT groups and individuals, democrats, and all with a belief in peace and freedom, to form a common alliance with and to welcome the efforts of the Christians at Pride Coalition.  The Coalition saves lives by showing people that the hate and fear of the extremists is not the whole – indeed not even the main story behind modern Christianity.  There is no need for there to be a disconnect between people’s sexuality, gender identity and faith, should they choose to practice Christianity.  And we need to send thanks and congratulations to John Wesley’s Chapel, already a citywide leader in ethical business and fairtrade, for hosting without prejudice, the Christians and Pride service". 

 

 

http://www.newroombristol.org.uk/

 

 

 

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