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Homosexuality In Mormonism

According to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints , the homosexuality is officially seen as a set of "thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and not as a" condition "immutable, or indication an "identity" innate .

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints says it officially welcomed all members to respect homosexuals as if the law of chastity , a principle common to all members of the Church. The law of chastity prohibits sex gay and lesbian , which, like any sex outside of marriage heterosexual , may be punished by excommunication. Nevertheless, Latter-day Saints with homosexual behavior and wanting to stay within the Church should abstain from sexual intercourse , , .

In 1995, the First Presidency publishes The Family: A Proclamation to the World defining the official position of the Church, the family, gender roles and male and female sexuality.

In 1996, during the General Conference , Apostle Dallin H. Oaks says 'Our sexual identity, male or female, was an essential feature of our existence before our birth'. Scientists observing the various suggestions, it approves Drs Byne and Parsons (Columbia University): 'the active role of the individual in the construction of identity is strikingly absent from most theories about the origins of sexual orientation' . The question of marriage between same sex remains one of the first political struggles of the church which acts by supporting laws defining marriage between a man and a woman and, conversely, does not support those leading to the legalization of marriage homosexual.

His position has been criticized by associations working for the recognition of gay rights who believe that the Church promotes the homophobia of its position on this issue.

In 2008, shortly after the accession of Thomas S. Monson as president, the Church leaders have agreed to a request for a meeting addressed by Affirmation , an organization of gay Latter-day Saints. The Church authorities are represented by the head of Family Service of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his predecessor in office, locating both the framework of the discussion (Family) and level of responsibility of the interlocutors of the Church . However, in July 2008, one month prior to the meeting, the appointment has been postponed to an undetermined date .

In 2009, the Church has supported a series of texts against discrimination against homosexuals leading to their adoption by the City Council of Salt Lake City. These texts was "the right to have a roof over his head and right to work free from discrimination" and argued that the Church "in essence" .

Summary

In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

History

For the beginnings of the Church

Joseph Smith introduced "new and everlasting covenant"
Originally

Since its inception, the Church has always stressed the importance of heterosexual sex and marriage , although the son of the prophet Joseph Smith , first president of the Church, David Hyrum Smith ( in 1844 - 1904 ) was able to have fought against homosexual tendencies . In Doctrine and Covenants , we read that in order to achieve the highest degree of celestial kingdom, "a man must enter into this order of the priesthood . Although the Church has allowed men to have sex with several women by its doctrine of plural marriage (abandoned since 1890 ), it prohibits sex outside of marriage. When reports of gays and lesbians have been discovered, the accused were sometimes excommunicated , the first known case was in 1841 , of John C. Bennett was assumed that the bisexuality , although William Smith accused his brother, Joseph Smith Jr., to have tolerated the behavior for a while Bennett . Sexual immorality is seen in the Book of Mormon as "the most heinous of all sins," although the book never refers only once directly to the sodomy or the homosexuality in any way .

Using the Joseph Smith Translation

The Bible , as currently interpreted by most fundamentalist Christians, forbids homosexuality , stating: "And thou shalt not lie with a male as one lies with a woman. It is a detestable thing " . The translation of the Bible Joseph Smith more explicit teachings of the Bible about the homosexuality. In the biblical story of Lot , the translation makes it clear for men of the city of Sodom : "So they said to the man: We want men and your daughters too, and we will do that it seems good. Now this was consistent with the wickedness of Sodom " . Michael Quinn has suggested that early church leaders had a more tolerant view on homosexuality , but Gordon B. Hinckley said that the prophets have always considered homosexuality as a "grave sin" .

The Joseph Smith Translation and understanding of the verses Bible used by the Church to condemn the homosexuality are being challenged by some support groups for gay Mormons who believe that "the old argument that the Scriptures condemn homosexuality is far from acceptable " .

Homosexuality as an illness

In 1959 , in response to the increasing arrests of men gay in Utah and Idaho , President David O. McKay instructed the apostles of the movement Spencer W. Kimball and Mark E. Peterson cure homosexuals within the Church . At that time, medical experts ranked the homosexuality among mental illnesses , and Kimball certifying that she could be treated. Speaking in 1964 to educators and psychiatrists Mormon Church, Kimball said, citing a medical article to the journal Medical World News: "We know that this disease is curable," and that Mormons ex-gay had emerged within the Church who advocated care programs, although the treatment was as treatment for alcoholism when it is necessary for continued vigilance . In 1970 , Kimball was involved in creating a publication for church leaders to "help .

In 1993 , when the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its International Classification of Diseases as a mental illness , the Church has produced Understanding and Helping Those With Homosexual Problems (Understanding and helping those who problems of homosexuals), which removed any reference to homosexuality as a disease. The religious movement is frequently referenced contemporary scientific research, but says it should not be taken as a position on the "scientific issues", especially as regards the cause of homosexuality .

Publications

In 1965 , Spencer W. Kimball addressed homosexuality in his speech "Love vs Lust" ("Love vs. Desire"). He called homosexuality "shameful sin, but taught that he who has" desires and tendencies "homosexuals could overcome" the same way as if he was focussed on the hugs, the fornication or adultery. He taught that, yes, everyone is subject to temptations, but the difference "between the wrong person and worthy person is generally that one died and one survived" . In 1969 he published his speech in Miracle of Forgiveness (The Miracle of Forgiveness), in which he teaches that masturbation can lead to homosexuality. However, he believes that many homosexuals are "the basis of good people who have become prisoners of sin "and that" some completely overcome homosexuality in a few months. " Kimball makes clear that this book is his personal opinion and excludes all liability of the Church in it may contain errors .

In 1970 , the Church has produced Hope for transgressors (Hope for the transgressors) and in 1971 , New Horizons for Homosexuals (New Horizons for Homosexuals) , which both recommend treatment for those who homosexual tendencies. In 1976 , the Church has officially opposed the amendment on equal rights. According to the President of the Church at that time, Spencer W. Kimball , the reason for this opposition was partly to prevent any recognition of the constitutional rights of gays.

Finally, this year, the religious organization has published a booklet distributed widely for young men and based on a speech by Boyd K. Packer vigorously condemning homosexual activity. The author praises of a missionary who has been affected by this problem and had to be separated from his companion to guard against advances of the latter . In 1978 , Packer recalled all this in another sermon, also reported in a pamphlet, where he presents homosexual acts as a perversion. He raised the possibility that they may find their origin in selfishness and could be dealt with "altruistic thoughts with selfless acts" . He said the Church had not previously addressed the issue most of homosexuality for two reasons: first, "some subjects are best addressed in a very private" and secondly " we can get very silly things that we try to prevent by talking too much about these things " .

In 2007, the Church has published a pamphlet entitled God loves his children which is targeted to the faithful who have an attraction for people of their sex. This document, which was preceded by three others (1974, 1983 and 1992), explains that "the Church does not know the origin of homosexuality "and" recognizes that all gays can not change their sexual orientation; Moreover, he does not recommend marriage to gay people. An advocate for gay Mormons believes that the revision of this document provides "positive developments", even if they think the negatives are majoraitaires .

Modern Theology and Church policy on homosexuality

The traditional view of the current church on homosexuality has been developed in the early 1960s and is largely the result of sermons, discussions, and pamphlets of Spencer W. Kimball , Boyd K. Packer, Gordon B. Hinckley and Elder Dallin H. Oaks. Some of their conclusions:

For many church members, declarations of Gordon B. Hinckley , former president, are understood to be the official policy of the movement. One of the recent statements of Hinckley said: "Now we have homosexuals in the church. Good people. We do not take action against such people - provided they do not become involved in a sin, sexual sin. If they do, we do with them exactly what we'd do with heterosexuals who sin " .

The Church teaches that homosexual problems can be overcome by faith in God, sincere repentance, and persistent effort . Homosexual relations are included by the Church in the list of "serious breaches" and this can result in a disciplinary board and, if the person does not give an excommunication . The Church includes in the grave sins "the murder , the rape , sexual abuse of force, abuse of spouse, intentional serious physical injury (...), the adultery , the fornication , homosexual relations, the deliberate abandonment of family responsibilities, robbery, burglary, embezzlement, sale of illegal drugs, fraud, perjury, and perjury " .

Mormon site summarizes how cautious the current position of official religious movement as follows :

"The homosexuality is a difficult case. The Church leaders are aware of the great difficulties faced by homosexuals who want to practice their faith, but feel an attraction towards those of the same sex. Although the The existence of identity LGBT

Although there is no formal policy in this regard, some leaders of the religious movement has declared that the words 'homosexual', 'lesbian' and 'gay' should be used as adjectives to describe thoughts, feelings or behavior, and never as nouns to describe conditions or people , . President Gordon B. Hinckley himself, however, said: "We have homosexuals in the Church" . The leaders taking this position say that the use of these words denotes a condition involving a person who has no choice over their sexual behavior , , but have not talked about bisexuality.

The 'gay issues' are defined as thoughts, feelings or behaviors homoerotic . About people who have homosexual feelings, the church has often described as people who have an attraction for people of their own sex. The 'marriage' is defined solely as a union between a man and a woman . Thus, marriage between persons of the same sex is not considered a legitimate form of marriage and the church supported the notion of a constitutional amendment to the U.S. to legally define marriage as the union between a man and a woman .

'Flip' homosexual

The Church uses the case of Jesus Christ who was tempted as an example proving that homosexuals can avoid sin

The Church does not condemn what it calls 'feeling', the 'inclinations' or the 'temptations' of any type when they are not followed by deeds, referring to the example of Christ's temptations . Members of the Church with homosexual inclinations can participate in worship to the same extent as any other member of the Church , provided they remain single or marry someone of the opposite sex. Those who have a homosexual attraction are encouraged to speak with their ecclesiastical superior , . They are encouraged not to leave their orientation to be the sole determining factor in their lives, but to see their whole personality, taendant their horizons beyond their orientation . They should be careful not to blame their parents.

However, church leaders recognize that those with homosexual inclinations can experience the solitude and the particular difficulties , . They encourage the faithful to take an active interest in these people. They said: "Everyone should understand that persons (and members of their families) struggling with this burden that is the homosexual attraction are in special need of love and encouragement is clearly the responsibility of members of Church, who indicated by . The movement's leaders have admitted that perhaps such tendencies are innate or acquired without personal choice and may have some relationship to heredity, citing several supporting scientific research on the subject and the masculine or feminine is an eternal and essential characteristic of the soul .

'Feelings' homosexuals

The Church teaches that all members should take their responsibility in curbing their thoughts, attitudes, feelings, desires and passions. They are taught to avoid any conversation or activity that might arouse in them sexual desires . They are ordered to "leave under . Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ , all desire to sin may be changed and everyone is supposed to enjoy lasting peace .

To those who have an attraction for people of their sex, they state that "the line of prudence is between the predisposition and feelings" . The Church teaches that everyone has feelings that he has not chosen , but that "irrespective of the causes, these problems can be controlled and eventually overcome " . Although the Church does not take any disciplinary action against homosexual thoughts or feelings and cites examples concrete revealing how those who had a penchant for alcohol , anger or other undesirable traits were able to control their thoughts and actions a href = "# cite_note-.5Bhttp: .2 F.2Fwww.lds.org.2Fldsnewsroom.2Fv.2Findex.jsp.3Fvgnextoid.3D27f71f1dd189f010VgnVCM100000176f620aRCRD.26vgnextchannel.3D726511154963d010VgnVCM1000004e94610aRCRD.5D-1"> .

The members of the church should not engage in activities that would strengthen their homosexual feelings, such as pornography , the masturbation and homosexual behavior , , . Unhealthy relationships with people who encourage this kind of practice should be terminated, and the contact of what is considered bad should be avoided , . The bishop should be careful not to create circumstances in which those who have homosexual tendencies would be exposed to temptations .

'Conduct' homosexual

In 1991 , the Church issued a report that reads: "Sexual relations are proper only between a husband and wife, when properly expressed in marriage. Any other sexual contact, including fornication , the adultery and homosexual and lesbian behavior is outrageous ... We implore those involved in such behaviors to abandon them " . "The attraction to persons of the same sex is real but it should not be a physical expression of that attraction. The desire for physical gratification does not authorize anyone to immorality, regardless of sexual orientation. "

She further stated that engaging in homosexuality would love to distort the reports , undermine the divinely established cell family and that this could become an addiction . The discipline of the Church against homosexual activity is slightly more severe than for members who have committed a heterosexual act. The practice of male and female homosexuality is automatically the subject of a special mention on the form of membership of those involved and permanently prevents the person to fill a full-time mission for the Church . She says all the prophets, ancient and modern, taught that homosexual behavior is a sin serious . The theory that some are born homosexual, according to them is "a malicious and destructive lie. This idea, persuasive to some is .

Although leaders of the religious movement condemned the sin of homosexual behavior, they teach love for men and women who experience homosexual attraction, including those who continue to lead a homosexual lifestyle. "We should expand with kindness and comfort to the afflicted, to provide for their needs and helping them in their problems" , they said. They stood against physical attacks or verbal abuse against those who have homosexual behavior . They said they had a hard time believing that anyone would choose such a deviation as a result of conscious decision making; officer argued that this could result from a spiritual disorder with origin in selfishness, and that Such feelings must be overcome or removed . They teach that behavior is changeable and in case of non-repentance, this can result in a sanction of the Church up to the excommunication , under the leadership of Bishop . Spiritual healing is supposed to be effected by the observance of the rules of the Church to recover the moral and spiritual health after a long period of time and should be accompanied by the determination not to deviate .

Marriage of homosexuals

Heterosexual Marriage

The Church discourages marriage to homosexuals who have overcome their homosexual tendencies.

President Hinckley said: "Marriage should not be considered as a therapeutic step to solve problems such as homosexual inclinations or practices, which at first should clearly be overcome with a firm determination not to (...) never slide back into such practices " . Unless this is done, homosexuals can not marry in good faith without the risk of harm to others (spouse, children) . It warned the leaders of the religious movement encouraging homosexuals to cultivate heterosexual feelings usually lead to frustration and despair . The critical point that marriages are made for the wrong reasons . Several unions have failed because the problems were not resolved gay marriage before .

The Church maintains that it is possible to overcome these problems . According to her, some have reported that heterosexual feelings can occur in people once they are released from their homosexual inclinations . The marriage of those who have homosexual feelings would be appropriate if "first showed their ability to resolve these feelings or inclinations and put an end to them, have felt a great attraction for a daughter of God and desire therefore engage in marriage, have children and enjoy the blessings of eternity " . Several church members say they have dominated their homosexual attraction enough for marriage.

Many people, having homosexual tendencies, thought they should get married because of the doctrine of the Church on marriage. Indeed, it states that heterosexual marriage is one of many necessary conditions for entry into the degree of glory in the highest heavenly kingdom, the highest of three heavens mentioned by the apostle Paul in the New Testament. Marriage between a man and a woman is considered in the Mormon faith as a prerequisite to reach the sky. Therefore, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe a family is the basic unit of society in this life on earth and also in the sky. However, they believe that this family must be built the way God wants, not by deceit and lies . Those who have not had the opportunity to marry in this life - especially those who experience homosexual attraction - to receive in the next . This attraction is supposed not to continue after death, and if the show is honest faithful in this life, they will receive all the blessings in heaven, including celestial marriage .

Same-Sex Marriage

The Church does not endorse and does not allow homosexual behavior among its members and actively opposed attempts to legalize gay marriage or civil unions , , . Gordon B. Hinckley , former president of the religious organization, said that the Church does not consider himself "anti-gay" but rather as "pro-family" . Mormon doctrine claims that heterosexual marriage is a necessary condition to enter the degree of glory in the highest heavenly kingdom.

Political Participation of the Church

From the mid -1990s , the Church began to focus his attention on the issue of gay marriage. In 1993 , the Supreme Court of the State of Hawaii argued that discrimination against same-sex couples in the issuance of marriage licenses violated the constitution Hawaiian. In response, the First Presidency of the Church issued a report dated 13 February 1994 declaring his opposition to gay marriage , and urging its members to support efforts to outlaw gay marriage and lesbians. With the support of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and several other religious organizations, the Hawaiian legislature enacted a bill in 1994 banning gay marriage. As a non-official Church continued to oppose Hawaii in efforts to provide families gays and lesbians the right to enter into civil unions along with most of the same legal rights as heterosexual families, whose ' adoption , child custody, and common property rights.

While other states, including Vermont and Massachusetts , began to enact legal protection for gay couples, the Church has continued to actively participate politically in order to prevent any legal recognition to families who are not heterosexuals. In 2004 , she officially approved an amendment to the Constitution of the United States prohibiting marriage unless it is contracted between a man and a woman. It also officially announced its opposition to political measures that "confer legal status to any other sex" as "a man and a woman legally married." Although the statement was directed specifically against gay marriage , it can also be understood as emphasizing the political opposition to recognize civil unions , marriages of customary law, plural marriages , or other family arrangements.

In 2009, the Church has supported a series of texts against discrimination against homosexuals leading to their adoption by the City Council of Salt Lake City. These texts was "the right to have a roof over his head and right to work free from discrimination" and argued that the Church "in essence" .

Experiments at Brigham Young University (BYU)

Brigham Young University condemns homosexual activity

The Brigham Young University is the largest religious university of North America , and is the educational institution of reference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Although its business practices and policies are not specifically dictated by the Church, is regarded by many as a reflection of the mentality of it.

To be admitted to this university, students must agree to abide by the code of honor of the school. While homosexuals and heterosexuals must remain in the law of celibacy required by the Church, the honor code prohibits more than all forms of physical intimacy is an expression of homosexual feelings. There is no similar restriction in terms of expressing feelings of heterosexuals. Nobody has the right to advocate homosexuality or promoting homosexual relations by presenting them as morally acceptable. It is also forbidden to dress the same way as the other sex. However, it is clear that sexual orientation is not a question of honor code .

In the 1970s , the university has undertaken a number of experiments in the use of aversion therapy . At that time, the homosexuality was considered a mental illness and aversion therapy was one of the most popular treatment . In 1966 , Martin EP Seligman, a psychologist and American writer, undertook a study showing positive results suggesting that homosexuality could be cured, causing a "great wave of enthusiasm" . In chapter 3 of the essay by Max Ford McBride, it was reported that 17 male subjects were observed in this study, and 14 have completed treatment. Two men committed suicide during their treatment. Participants were shown on the campus of the university, pornographic pictures of men while subjecting them to electric shocks which increased gradually, and then showed them pornographic images while a heterosexual quiet music was played in substance. Although all participants have signed a report at the end of treatment as what they had been treated, no further study was never conducted and at least six of the 14 men have since recanted, saying they had lied in claiming have been cured because they wanted to do away with these treatments painful and dangerous. One of them was Don Harryman, who reported his experience in Peculiar People: Mormons and Same-Sex Orientation (Special People: Mormons and homosexuals) . After it was shown that the results were imperfect Seligman, aversion therapy has lost its popularity and in 1994 , the American Medical Association published a report stating that "aversion therapy is no longer recommended for gay men and lesbians " .

In 1997 , the university president, Merrill J. Bateman was unable to verify that the therapy by electric shock had occurred at a time, and requested documentation to support these claims . A faculty member posted an article on the website of the university said that the aversion therapy may have occurred at BYU as a student, but only in rare circumstances .

Church and Therapy

Viewpoint of the Church

Asked about the Church's position on therapy to cure homosexuality, Wickman said it may be appropriate for a person seeks therapy, and that the Church would probably not cons. Oaks went on to say that the church rarely takes a position on whether the techniques are appropriate. They stress that the clinical side is not the most important thing, and warn against abusive practices, such as aversion therapy .

In general, the Church disapproves of all groups that "defy the religious and moral values," "stimulate physical contact among participants," or "encourage open confession or disclosure of personal information normally discussed only in confidential interviews " . According to her, "although participants may experience temporary emotional relief or joy of living, the old problems often return, leading to further disappointment and despair" .

Charges have recently completed the aversion therapy

In 2000 , Jayce Cox reported in a newspaper gay in Las Vegas that he had undergone aversion therapy at the Brigham Young University as late as 1995 on a recommendation from his bishop . The same year, someone with the pseudonym Mike Summers is reported to have undergone aversion therapy in the office of Evergreen to Ogden in 1997 . Generally, people say they were shown a picture depicting the homoeroticism , followed by applying a negative stimulus. Then they would have shown the image of a woman, followed by withdrawal of the stimulus. There are conflicting reports as to the fact that the images were pornographic as about the use of a negative stimulus. A report says that the stimulus was a shock to the fingers or penis while another asserts that the ammonia was sprayed into the nose of the individual , .

Evergreen has denied the veracity of these statements by saying that their first office was not opened before 1999 and there has never had an office in Ogden. In 2000 , the municipal police department Provo and the chief investigator of the Ministry of Commerce of Utah has launched an investigation into these claims. This investigation has been halted since then, and none of the stories could not be corroborated, nor the identity of Mike Summers established .

gay Mormons

Statistics and known examples

There are no official figures for how many gay Mormons. The most recent study, dating from 1972 indicated that between 10 and 13% of young Mormon men had at least one homosexual experience. The study did not include homosexuals who had no homosexual experience . Gary Watts, a former president of Family Fellowship estimates that only 10% of homosexuals remain in the Church . Many of them grew in the Church by finding support from various groups or websites where they share their homosexual attraction while simultaneously being a member of the Church. A number of personal stories were published in the book A Place in the Kingdom: Spiritual Insights from Latter-day Saints about Same-Sex Attraction (A place in the Kingdom: Spiritual Insight of Latter-day Saints about their homosexual attraction ) . Other personal experiences are recounted on the Web site "People Can Change" ("People can change") . Others have shared their story in the Ensign magazine , on the website of Evergreen International or in blogs . The following people are among the best-known personalities within the Mormon gay community:

  • David Matheson has said that he was attracted to men when he was 22 years and was married. After seven years of therapy, he said he changed his sexual orientation . Since he became professional counselor and has based its clinical center "to help men who want to reduce unwanted homosexuality and feel fully human" . He is clinical director of the Center for Gender Wholeness "(" Centre for maintenance of its kind ") and director of" People Can Change "(" People can change ") . He wrote Evergreen Workbook for Men, Four Principles of Growth (Evergreen Workbook for Men, Four principles of progression) , and made several appearances in the media to mention the fact that it would be possible to overcome homosexual attractions. It does not say he is completely heterosexual, but "enough heterosexual .
  • Rich Wyler was excommunicated , but has since been renamed in the Church . He was married, then widowed. He is the founder and executive director of People Can Change "and co-creator and director of Journey into Manhood (Journey into manhood). He created the "Higher Path Life Coaching" and started to become a professor of coaching in 2005 . He leads a coaching group called "A Wife's Journey: Caring for Yourself and Your Family When Your Husband Struggles With Homosexuality or Addiction" .
  • Jason Park has admitted to having homosexual feelings at age 31, after being married for four years. By means of a support group and Evergreen International, he said he could put aside these homosexual feelings. Since then he has written three books about homosexuality :
    • Resolving Homosexual Problems: A Guide for LDS Men (gay Troubleshoot Guide for LDS men);
    • Understanding Male Homosexual Problems: An Introduction for Latter-day Saints (Understanding the problems gay men: Introduction for Latter-day Saints);
    • Helping LDS Men Resolve Their Homosexual Problems: A Guide for Family, Friends, and Church Leaders (Helping men Latter-day Saints to solve their problem of homosexuality: A guide for family, friends and church leaders).
  • Ty Mansfield explains how he dealt with his homosexual attraction in the book It has been a speaker at Evergreen International and has been interviewed on several occasions by the media , . In 2007 , he became vice-president of "North Star" .

Terminology

Most of the leading gay lifestyle gay see no problem in fact identify themselves as gay, and openly. However, among the unmarried and gay faithfully married, the terminology is more difficult. Many do not identify their orientation, or say they are heterosexual . Others identify themselves as gay or homosexual, even if they are married to someone of the opposite sex . Some people, especially those who are married or who have undergone therapy, identified as an ex-gay "cured". A relatively new term is 'Moho', which is a combination of Mormon and gay. A homosexual has defined a 'moho' as a homosexual who is "first Mormon who is still trying to live within the constraints .

Many homosexuals reject any classification of their sexuality, following the example of leaders who speak only for same-sex attraction (English: Same Sex Attraction), often referred to SSA for short. However, some oppose the use of this term, explaining that "it is not sex" and prefer to speak of attraction to the same genus (English: Same-Gender Attraction), or SGA . There is a similar argument in the way of using SSA. Many people say they are fighting against their SSA, speaking of themselves as "fighters" . We also talk about living a SSA to have a SSA, SSA to handle, or even be an SSA. Most use a combination of words, and many have expressed the frustration of not knowing how to call themselves .

Support Organizations

The Church neither encourages nor discourages support groups for those struggling with homosexual tendencies. However, it discourages groups that advocate a homosexual lifestyle . While no agency is officially sponsored by the Church, many of them have adopted theories and philosophies they believe to be in compliance with the policy of the Church. Several church members have also joined organizations specifically for ex-gays, others identifying themselves as LGBT are attached to other support groups that seek to change the doctrine of the Church especially towards greater tolerance for LGBT issues. Among these support groups include:

Evergreen International

Evergreen International is a nonprofit organization based in Salt Lake City , originally founded in 1989 by eleven LDS seeking care for their homosexuality.

This organization is for "people who want to reduce their attraction towards people of their gender and overcome homosexual behavior" . It says that homosexuals can abandon their homosexual attraction , and has a great selection of books dealing with this issue . She does not advocate any particular form of therapy , but provides information about various psychotherapies , including maintenance therapy gender reorientation therapy, therapy, rehabilitation, therapy affirmation of gender, group therapy, and restorative therapy . The group, which fully supports the Church's position and uses the Mormon doctrine as the basis of his teachings, is criticized by the support group Affirmation .

Affirmation: Gay & Lesbian Mormons

Affirmation is an international support group ( U.S. , Chile , Australia in particular) created on 11 June 1977 by Stephan Zakharia, following the suicide / A> two gay Mormons who had participated in the experiments of aversion therapy administered by the department of psychology of the Brigham Young University. In 1978 , Paul Mortensen has formed a group in Los Angeles , then groups of Affirmation appeared in many cities of the United States .

Because of the many statements and actions of the Mormon leaders against homosexual behavior, Affirmation has sometimes criticized the Church and the aversion therapy. In October 1999 , some members of Affirmation in Salt Lake City protested against lobbying by the Church to preserve the traditional definition of marriage . Arguing that "homosexuality and homosexual relationships can be compatible with (...) the Gospel of Jesus Christ , "the organization intends to" work for the understanding and acceptance of gays and lesbians as people full, equal and worthy in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and in society, and help them realize and assert their own worth " . However, the group has expanded its mission and now includes bisexuals , the transgendered , and intersex people. Evergreen International Affirmation criticized for his opposition to the Church .

North Star (LDS)

North Star is an organization that's mission is to "offer a place of community for Mormons who have a homosexual attraction, but also for their family, friends, and church leaders" . The group supports the Church's position on homosexuality and aims to provide spiritual and social support for individuals and families who wish to live in harmony with the teachings of the Church.

Disciples2

Disciple2 is an organization that aims to provide support to people she called "wrestlers" both male and female, who "have chosen or may one day choose to be in harmony with our Heavenly Father and laws such as defined by the prophets and apostles today. It has support groups at Yahoo! for men , women and their families .

Wildflowers

Wildflowers is an organization for "women who have been or are currently married to homosexual men" . The group was organized by the Mormons, but is open to other beliefs.

Family Fellowship

This organization is for families among whom are lesbians, gay, bisexual, and / or transgender .

GlyA (Gay LDS Young Adults)

GlyA is a fraternal organization that provides social activities for young adult gay men, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender people 18 to 30 who share a culture and / or religious heritage Mormon . This organization provides resources to religious organizations that accept homosexual behavior .

LDS Reconciliation

LDS Reconciliation is an organization that affirms the spiritual life of gays and lesbians. He organized protests against BYU and policies .

Gamofites

This non-religious fathers is for Mormons who are gay. His name is an acronym for "Gay Mormon Fathers" which was added the suffix "itis" contained in several names of Book of Mormon ( Nephites , Lamanites , Jaredites , etc.). By supporting the sexuality of its members, the organization differs from the official doctrine of the Church on homosexuality.

The Guardrail Foundation

The Guardrail Foundation is aimed at young men asking questions about homosexuality and offers them solutions compatible with the Mormon teaching. It promotes therapy called "Context Specific" which provides help to people who have "problems" of homosexuality .

Controversies

Accusations of homophobia

Stuart Matis, a gay bachelor, said: "The heterosexual Mormons have absolutely no idea what it's like to grow up gay in this church. It is a life of constant torment, hatred of oneself and homophobia internalized " . Later, Stuart killed himself in a Mormon church in Los Altos in California . After two of his friends were also gay himself committed suicide, members of Affirmation began to educate the public about suicide prevention and the destructive consequences of homophobia. Victims of suicide are reported on its website .

Artistic works such as the play Angels in America , which was presented at the Avignon festival , highlighting the problems facing homosexuals in this religion today, speaking of a life " .

Accusation of promoting violence against gays

<REVOIR REFERENCES OF THIS PARAGRAPH> and " vigorously resist "all men" are attracting young boys to train them in these immoral acts. "

Boyd K. Packer gave the example of a missionary men he had known and who had given a blow to his missionary companion, but Boyd K. Packer does not say why. Boyd K. Packer reported to have said to the missionary: "Good. Someone had to do it, and it would not be good for a General Authority to solve the problem this way. " After telling the story, Packer said: "I do not recommend you do that, but I did not omit. You must protect yourself. " Boyd K. Packer gives a similar warning against heterosexual advances: "Do not let anyone touch or handle your body, anyone! " .

D. Michael Quinn said that these comments constitute incitement to waves hitting a gay, and that the Church itself endorses such behavior by continuing to edit the speech Packer in the form of a pamphlet entitled To Young Men Only (For young men only) . Neither Boyd K. Packer nor the Church has officially responded to this accusation directly, but other leaders have since said that the Church strongly opposes all forms of violence against homosexuals. For example, the apostle Dallin H. Oaks said that his doctrines obviously condemn those who commit physical or verbal attacks on people they think are involved in homosexual or lesbian behavior .

Doctrinal changes over time

<Quelques Members say l'glise celle-ci was once more tolerant l'homosexualit, and that only the current leadership that has proved unfavorable to elle> . However, when reports of gays and lesbians were discovered, the culprits were sometimes excommunicated (for example the case of John C. Bennett, bisexual, in 1841 ).

It is reported that some practitioners and prominent members of the Church in Utah has never been punished when it was known they had intercourse with their servants the same sex (although there is no conclusive evidence that sex was involved in these reports) . Such cases include that of Evan Stephens, who was director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir until 1916 and is the author of many hymns known to the Church. He remained unmarried, but had intercourse and shared his bed with several male partners (domestic and traveling companions). Some of these reports have been described under a pseudonym in the Mormon periodical The Children's Friend (The Friend of Children). Another known case was that of Louise B. Felt and May Anderson, the first two presidents of the Primary , who lived together in the same bedroom for decades and have been designated by the officers of the Primary under the name of "David and Jonathan" in Primary .

Many Mormon scholars have estimated that the interpretations of Quinn were a distortion of history of the Church. They deny any acceptance of homosexuality by the leaders of the past, and argue that the current conduct of the Church is entirely consistent with the teachings of past leaders and scriptures . They disagree with the theory that Evan Quinn Stephens was involved in intercourse with other men or that article in The Children's Friend does speak to these reports. They state that Stephens is known only as "Christian gentleman strict morals" . Since then, however, ex-Mormon Connell O'Donovan has provided more evidence that Stephens had a homosexual orientation, but no evidence that he was homosexually active . The researchers also note that May Anderson originally came to live with Louise B. Felt at the request of her husband to keep company with his wife during her illness. This does not exclude that they are then "fell in love" (in their own language). They argue, however, on whether they have had homosexual contact . O'Donovan, author of Homosexuality and Mormonism (1840-1980) , which uses multiple sources, including several from D. Michael Quinn, evokes an internal scandal involving Joseph Fielding Smith, a member of the family of the Prophet, ordained Patriarch of the Church in 1942, despite rumors about his homosexual tendencies. In 1946, he was suspected of having had several years ago, intimate relationships, sexual or otherwise, with a young man and he was quietly relieved of his office and exiled to Hawaii. His expulsion was justified on health grounds. There was no excommunication or public announcement.

Position of other movements from Mormonism

Most other movements from the Mormonism condemn homosexuality in similar terms to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints , but not active in politics. Some, like the Community of Christ , however, have adopted a slightly more moderate view.

Community of Christ

The Community of Christ adopted a somewhat more flexible with respect to homosexuality .

She realizes that many of its members are concerned about this issue and how it is treated within the Church . Just as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints , it draws a distinction between homosexual orientation and homosexual activity, says that only marriages between a man and a woman is recognized by the Holy Scriptures , as they do not favor same-sex relationships, a person practicing homosexuality can not enter the priesthood, but it is a child of God just like a heterosexual person.

However, as she says, "always seeking to keep faith with the moral perceptions of the Gospel restored, "she acknowledges that" theology is dynamic and must be interpreted in light of cultures and changing times. " She thinks that the verses Bible unfavorably with homosexual relations should be viewed in the context in which they were written . She said: "The church leadership continues to examine ways to order homosexuals. Emphasis should be placed on Christian values in any sexual behavior. An attitude of love and understanding should affirm the value of every person " .

The leaders are trying to introduce the recognition of homosexuality within the Church, notably by supporting GALA (Support Association for LGBT members), but they do it gradually so as not to provoke a mass exodus in ranks of the movement. Acceptance of homosexuality is an important issue for the movement that wants to participate in ecumenical dialogue .

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Strangite)

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Strangite) , also one of the movements from Mormonism , condemns homosexuality as a "direct violation of the law of God" . However, the movement's founder, James Strang, like Joseph Smith , never mentions the subject.

Homosexuality and Mormonism in theater, film and television

Theater, film and television have created characters gay Mormons. This is particularly the case following works:

Notes

Bibliography

References and notes

  1. a , b , c , d , e , f , g , h , i , j , k and l (en) "The attraction to persons of the same sex," Dallin H. Oaks, March 1996
  2. a , b , c , d , e , f , g , h , i , j , k , l , m , n , o , p and q (in) "Same-Gender Attraction," Dallin H. Oaks, 2007, Salt Lake City, Utah, EJCSDJ
  3. a , b , c and d (in) "What Are People Asking about Us?" Gordon B. Hinckley, November 1998, Ensign: 70
  4. "Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - Religions in Canada":
    "Homosexuality is considered immoral, although it does not condemn those who have homosexual tendencies. "
  5. (en) "First Presidency Statement on Same-Gender Marriage," Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson and James E. Faust, 20 October 2004, Salt Lake City, Utah, EDJCSDJ
  6. Deseret News http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1, 5143,695268144,00. html. The 300 reader comments, very different, that accompany the article are revealing of both the turning point for dialogue, resistance and fears among some members and some other relief, as well as doctrinal constraints that reduce opportunities for agreement. According to the exchange of letters, Affirmation wants changes in the forms of assistance from the church to homosexuals and stop the discrimination, while the Commissioner of Family Services, writing on behalf of President Monson, wishes to better understand gay organization and for studying how best to Be helpful "(how to make using the best). This gesture occurs shortly after the General Conference of the Church, held in April 2008, during which a respected member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles, Joseph B. Wirthlin, had called on church members to accept greater diversity in and outside the Church: "If only we had more compassion for those who are different from us etc ..." http://newsnet.byu .edu/story.cfm/68227
  7. Gay Mormons to Meet with Reporters
  8. a and b Support for gay Mormons, Le Figaro, November 2009.
  9. (en) From Mission to Madness: Last Son of the Mormon Prophet, Valeen Tippetts Avery, Univ. Illinois Press, 1998, Chapter 12 "David and Charley," pp. 232-43
  10. (en) D & C 131:1-4
  11. a , b , c and d Same-Sex Dynamics Among Nineteenth Century Americans: a Mormon Example, D. Michael Quinn, 2001, University of Illinois Press
  12. (en) Alma 39:5, Book of Mormon
  13. (en) Excerpts from the translation of the Bible by Joseph Smith, Leviticus 18:22
  14. Excerpts from the translation of the Bible by Joseph Smith, Genesis 19:9-15
  15. a , b , c , d and e (in) "Reverence and Morality," Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign, May 1987
  16. "The Bible and Homosexuality, A Guide for Latter-day Saints," Rick Fernandez, 1998 revision, the site of Affirmation
  17. Spencer W. Kimball: Twelfth President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Edward L. Andrew E. & Kimball, 1977, Salt Lake City, Utah, Bookcraf, P. 381
  18. (en) "A Counselling Problem In The Church", Spencer W. Kimball, June 10, 1964
  19. (en) "New Horizons for Homosexuals," Spencer W. Kimball, 1971 EJCSDJ, P. 32
  20. (en) "Homosexuality not a disease to Be Cured", Reproductive Health Matters, November 2004
  21. (en) Spencer W. Kimball, January 5, 1965, BYU
  22. a and b (in) Miracle of Forgiveness, Spencer W. Kimball, 1969
  23. (en) Hope for transgressors, Spencer W. Kimball and Mark E. Petersen, 1970
  24. (en) New Horizons for Homosexuals, Spencer W. Kimball, 1971
  25. a , b and c (in) To Young Men Only Boyd K. Packer, October 2, 1976
  26. a , b , c , d , e , f , g , h , i and j (in) To the One, Boyd K. Packer, 1978
  27. (en) God loves his children , EJCSDJ
  28. Peggy Fletcher Stack, God loves his children: the LDS Church revises pamphlet on gays , The Salt Lake Tribune, July 28, 2007, translated by Fabrice Cellar
  29. a and b (in) "Musings of the Main Mormon," by Gordon B. Hinckley, 13 April 1997, Don Lattin, San Francisco Chronicle
  30. a , b , c , d , e , f , g , h , i , j , k and the (in) "Understanding and Helping Those Who Have Homosexual Problems: Suggestions for Ecclesiastical Leaders" , EJCSDJ, 1992
  31. a and b (in) Church Handbook of Instructions, EJCSDJ, 1998, Salt Lake City, Utah
  32. a href = "http://www.sdj-mormons.net/article35.html" class = "external text" rel = "nofollow"> LDS-Mormons: Q & A
  33. a and b (in) code of honor Brigham Young University
  34. a and b (in) "The Family: A Proclamation to the World," First Presidency and Council of Twelve Apostles of EJCSDJ
  35. a , b , c and d (in) "First Presidency Statement on Same-Gender Marriage," EJCSDJ
  36. a , b and c (in) "Gospel topics, Chasity," EJCSDJ
  37. (en) "Sexual Purity" For the Strength of Youth: Fulfilling Our Duty to God, 26
  38. (en) D & C 121:45
  39. (en) "The Atonement Can Secure Your Peace and Happiness", Richard G. Scott, 2006
  40. "Helping people who struggle with attraction to same sex", Jeffery R. Holland, Liahona, Oct. 2007
  41. (en) Church Handbook of Instruction, EJCSDJ, 1998 129
  42. (en) Church Handbook of Instruction, EJCSDJ, 1998 81
  43. (en) "Gay LDS men detail challenges", Carrie A. Moore, March 30, 2007, Deseret Morning News
  44. (en) Millennial Star, Lorenzo Snow, 31 August 1899, p. 547; discussed in Pure in Heart, Dallin H. Oaks, Salt Lake City, Bookcraft, 1988, pp. 61-62
  45. (en) "LDS to push marriage amendment," Jarvik, E. May 27, 2006, Retrieved Deseret News, November 20, 2006
  46. (en) Interview with Gordon B. Hinckley, NCC, 26 December 2004
  47. (en) "Effect of Visual Stimuli in Electric Aversion Therapy", Max Ford McBride, dissertation submitted to the Department of Psychology at BYU, August 1976, Provo, Utah
  48. (en) "aversion therapy" on the Encyclopedia of gay culture, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer (GLBTQ)
  49. (en) What You Can Change and What You Can not: The Complete Guide to Self Improvement, Martin EP Seligman, Knopf, 1993 156 ( ISBN 0-679-41024-4 )
  50. a and b (in) "With All Thy Getting, Get Understanding, Don D. Harryman, on Affirmation, originally published in Peculiar People: Mormons and Same-Sex Orientation
  51. (en) Health Care Needs of Gay Men and Lesbians in the U.S., American Medical Association, 1994
  52. (en) Document personnel Merrill J. Bateman, April 9, 1997
  53. (en) "Supershrink", August 12, 2006, issue ID #: 27629
  54. a and b (in) Church Handbook of Instructions, EJCSDJ, 1998
  55. (en) Rule Bill Schafer, published May 12, 2000 by Las Vegas Bugle
  56. a and b (in) "Mike Summers", R. Schow, August 14, 2000
  57. (en) "Does Practice Evergreen Therapeutic Techniques unethical?", Evergreen International, Inc.., October 1, 2006
  58. (en) "Mormon Sex Standards on college campuses, or deal us out of The Sexual Revolution," Wilford E. Smith, on J. Williard Marriott Libraby, University of Utah
  59. (en) "Mormon church stance is exchange Homosexuality," Rebecca Rosen Lum on Inside Bay Area.com
  60. (en) A Place in the Kingdom: Spiritual Insights from Latter-day Saints about Same-Sex Attraction, Garrick Hyde and Ginger Hyde
  61. (en) Official website of People Can Change
  62. a and b See, for example () "Becoming Whole Again" , "Compassion for Those Who Struggle" and "My Battle with Same-Sex Attraction"
  63. (en) Evidence on Evergreen
  64. See for example (in) Northern Lights , Keep Changing: A Gay Mormon Journey , The Tito Times , Here's to Hope , Original Mohom , Of Loyal Mind , Changing Countenance and Mormon Enigma
  65. (en) The story of David Matheson on People Can Change
  66. (en) About us, Center for Gender Wholeness
  67. (en) David Matheson on Evergreen International
  68. (en) "Four Principles of Growth", David Matheson, on Evergreen International
  69. (en) "Gay No More?" on You Tube
  70. (en) 17th Annual Conference of Evergreen
  71. (en) "Find a Counselor or Life Coach" on People Can Change
  72. (en) NW World News Prayer Network: # 4680
  73. (en) Blog of Jason Park, June 23, 2005
  74. (en) Ty Mansfield, on Evergreen International
  75. (en) "Everyday Lives, Everyday Values Interview with Fred and Marilyn Matis and Ty Mansfield, authors of In Quiet Desperation: Understanding the Challenge of Same-Gender Attraction
  76. (en) "KSL Interview - 'In Quiet Desperation' Authors" on You Tube
  77. (en) Site of North Star
  78. (en) A Mormon Enigma An Exploration of What It Means to Be Married, Mormon, and Gay (blog)
  79. (en) Keep Changing-A Gay Mormon Journey: Moho (blog)
  80. In Quiet Desperation: Understanding the Challenge of Same-Gender Attraction, Matis & Mansfield, 2004 ( ISBN 978-1590383315 )
  81. (en) Site Disciple2 International Support
  82. (en) "Am I SSA?", June 6, 2006, on How I Deal
  83. (en) Site of Evergreen International
  84. (en) "How Many People Have Changed?" FAQ on the site of Evergreen International
  85. (en) "Can I Resolve My Homosexual Problems?" Jason Park on Evergreen International
  86. (en) proposed by Evergreen International Bibliography
  87. (en) "Therapy", Jason Park on Evergreen International
  88. (en) Pages critical Evergreen International, Statement on
  89. (en) "In The Beginning: A Brief History of Affirmation," Paul Mortensen, on Affirmation
  90. (en) Site Official GALA
  91. (en) "Protesters Target Church Activism in California, Steve Fidel Deseret News, October 4, 1999, A6
  92. (en) Charter General Statement
  93. (en) "Aligned With The Church?" David Pruden on Evergreen International
  94. (en) Site of North Star
  95. (en) Group Yahoo! for men
  96. (en) Group Yahoo! for women
  97. (en) Group Yahoo! Family
  98. (en) Site We Are Wildflowers
  99. (en) Site Family Fellowship
  100. (en) Site glyA
  101. (en) "Resources for spiritual needs" on glyA
  102. (en) Site LDS Reconciliation
  103. (en) Site Guardrail Foundation
  104. (en) "Letter to a Cousin," Stuart Matis, February 2000, Statement
  105. (en) "Gay Mormon Kills Self on Church Steps," Dan Egan and Michael Vigh, March 3, 2000, The Salt Lake Tribune
  106. (en) List of suicides on Affirmation
  107. "" Angels "at the Avignon festival, and there was light", Audrey Kucinska, Shocks, Wednesday, July 18, 2007
  108. (en) To Young Men Only Boyd K. Packer, Planet of Light
  109. (en) "The Message: Why Stay Morally Clean," Boyd K. Packer, New Era, July 1972
  110. (en) "Prelude To The National" Defense of Marriage 'Campaign: Civil Discrimination Against Feared or Despised Minorities, "Michael Quinn, September 2001, originally published in Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought, 33:3, pp . 1-52
  111. a , b and c (in) "A Response to D. Michael Quinn's Homosexual Distortion of Latter-day Saint History" , George L. Mitton, Rhett S. James, review of Same-Sex Dynamics Among Nineteenth-Century Americans: A Mormon Example, D. Michael Quinn Provo, Utah, Maxwell Institute, 1998, pp. 141-263
  112. (en) Evan Stephens' Temple Apron
  113. Crime Against Nature - Gay Mormon History
  114. (en) "The Community of Christ and Homosexuality," in Religious Tolerence.org
  115. (en) "Community, Common Consent, and the Issue of Homosexuality" on the website of the Community of Christ
  116. (en) "Homosexuality - 1982 Statement by the Standing High Council", the official website of the Community of Christ
  117. Leader's Handbook, Community of Christ, copyright 1980, 1981
  118. (en) "The Community of Christ 2004 Conference - Full Delayed Acceptance of Homosexuality," Richard Price, on Restoration Bookstore
  119. (en) "Marriage, sex, adultery, homosexuality," Samuel E. West on mormonbeliefs.com
  120. (fr) Presentation of the book

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