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Home / Better understanding of international church conflicts over sexuality

Better understanding of international church conflicts over sexuality

Savi Hensman

Abstract

In various denominations, debates on sexual ethics and treatment of minorities have sparked heated international controversy. This is sometimes seen as a conflict between a ‘liberal’ west and ‘conservative’ south. But the reality is more complicated. This research essay by Ekklesia associate and noted commentator Savitri Hensman explores the issues and looks at ways forward in response and understanding.

n various denominations, debates on sexual ethics and treatment of minorities have sparked heated international controversy. This is sometimes seen as a conflict between a ‘liberal’ west and ‘conservative’ south. But the reality is more complicated.

Both acceptance of, and hostility towards, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people can be found across continents and cultures. And, while those most opposed to celebrating, or even allowing, same-sex partnerships sometimes claim to be protecting their people from the influence of the west, their actions serve to reinforce global power imbalances and western domination.

CONTENTS

1. Introduction – page 1
2. International divisions and a show of independence – page 2
3. Social change, clashes, and colonial legacy – page 4
4. Thwarted progress, church divisions – page 5
5. Cry for life: following the Jesus of faith page 7
6. A new millennium – page 8
7. Hope for a different world – page 10
8. The author – page 10
9. Related reading and research – pages 10-14

* Read and download the full 14-page research essay here (*.PDF Adobe Acrobat format): http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/sites/ekklesia.co.uk/files/international-churc...