Baptist Press Covers Exodus Response to Ugandan NASWU Statement

From Baptist Press:

“NASWU rejects the view that same-sex attraction is an innate ‘orientation,’ rather it is part of a range of feelings individuals ought to learn to bring under control as they mature,” the social workers said. “There is justification for Uganda to put in place appropriate legislation to comprehensively prohibit homosexuality.”

But the group said the bill contains drafting errors that should be corrected before its passage. Specifically, the clause requiring mandatory reporting of all known homosexual offenses should be amended to exempt disclosure made in counseling situations, the social workers advised.

Counselors, though, would have to be licensed to dispense same-sex counseling services and must pledge not to give pro-homosexual advice to their clients, the NASWU said in its recommendations.

In response, Exodus International, a Christian ministry that seeks to assist homosexuals in overcoming unwanted same-sex attractions, released a statement reiterating that the legislation being considered in Uganda is not the best way to address the issue.

“Although the NASWU seems genuinely concerned in helping those struggling with same-sex attraction, the organization fails to see that Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill of 2009 — as any legislation that criminalizes homosexuality — does more to hurt than help homosexuals,” Alan Chambers, president of Exodus International, said.

“Exodus continues to urge Uganda’s parliament to reject this hurtful legislation; we also ask the country’s evangelical churches to take the lead in offering hope and healing to all people, regardless of their particular struggles.”

In addition to prosecuting homosexual behavior, the proposed legislation would require pastors, missionaries, health care providers and counselors to report people suspected of such behavior. Last fall, Exodus wrote a letter to Uganda’s president expressing disapproval of the legislation.

In the statement issued March 22, Chambers wrote, “Exodus International believes that every human life, regardless of an individual’s sexual behavior, is of inestimable worth to God and that defending this principle is foundational in offering a Christian response to any issue.

“As such, Exodus International has not and will not support any legislation that deprives others of life and dignity including, but not limited to, Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Bill of 2009,” Chambers wrote. “We stand with all who are defending this basic, biblical tenet and remain committed to sharing the compassion, hope and life-giving truth and grace of Jesus Christ.”

The statement, signed by several Exodus International North American leaders, said former homosexuals have found a new identity in Jesus Christ, and “such transformation cannot be achieved in an environment of government coercion where the vital support, care and compassion of the Christian community is discouraged and prosecuted.”

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