Motion 18. Apology LGBTI+ Community

Discussion in '2022 General Discussion' started by CRfromQld, Jun 13, 2022.

  1. CRfromQld

    CRfromQld Moderator Staff Member

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    The Very Rev’d Dr Peter Catt to move; The Rev’d Deborah Bird seconding:

    That this Synod, noting Resolution R82/18 of the General Synod of Australia, in which the General Synod apologised to members of the LGBTIQ+ community for ‘disrespectful, hurtful, intentionally insensitive, bullying or abusive behaviour’ and committed the church to working towards creating safe churches for members of the LGBTIQ+ community:
    • 1. Affirms the statement made at this year's General Synod in Resolution R82/18 that we ‘recognise and rejoice in the image of God as reflected in every human being, regardless of race, social circumstances, creed or sexual identity’,
    • 2. Acknowledges that the churches attitudes and behaviours have and are creating trauma and affirms efforts to support those so affected.
    • 3. Requests Diocesan Council to work in consultation with members of the LGBTIQ+ community towards crafting an apology to members of the LGBTIQ+ community on behalf of this diocese.
    • 4. Requests Diocesan Council, parishes, schools and agencies to work with LGBTIQ+ Anglicans to explore ways to build safer, inclusive and affirming communities.
     
  2. CRfromQld

    CRfromQld Moderator Staff Member

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    This could well be disastrous for many children if we affirm sexual identity arising from social pressure or psychological issues.

    There is currently a social contagion of gender dysphoria in the western world. Cases have increased 40 fold from historic levels. There is ample evidence that a disproportionate number of cases of gender disphoria are associated with other conditions such as autism. In many cases a peer group will simultaneously declare they are trans.

    We know that if left alone most cases, around 85%, will resolve in favour of birth sex after puberty. If affirmed it pushes vulnerable people to continue on the path to transitioning particularly when puberty blockers and cross sex hormones are prescribed at young ages.

    Affirming gender dysphoria is a form of child abuse. Our lord said "It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones."

    Not only is it a moral failure but if the church affirms cases of gender dysphoria rather than more conservative treatment it could well result in significant liability in the future when people who have transitioned come to realise they have made a terrible mistake and sue the church for affirming their cross sex gender identity.