Statement of the Presiding Bishop on Human Rights for Homosexual Persons
Episcopal News Service. October 8, 1999 [99-154]
I have read with alarm and deep concern accounts of statements by the presidents of Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe which have become a provocation for the harassment and persecution of homosexual persons. Here I am put in mind of the Lambeth resolution which reminds us that homosexual persons are "loved by God and that all baptized, believing and faithful persons, regardless of sexual orientation, are full members of the Body of Christ."
Within the Anglican Communion we are seeking to discern a common mind on the issue of homosexuality in the life of the church. However, regardless of one's views on the matter, there should be no debate among us about human rights for all people -- which are enshrined in the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
I have conveyed this concern to the primates of Central Africa, Kenya, and Uganda, and am ready as their brother in Christ to share their burden, which belongs to everyone who has been baptized into Christ's death and resurrection, and thereby called to proclaim and uphold the dignity of all persons.
Frank T. Griswold
Presiding Bishop and Primate
The Episcopal Church USA