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from Theological Issues
Clergyman's Support of Reorientation Therapy Draws Bizarre, Disturbing Response
When Bishop Peter Forster of the Church of England made a pro-reorientation
comment to the Chester Chronicle newspaper recently, he probably had no idea of
the furor it would ignite.
Not only did Bishop Forster's remark become nationwide news, but actually
triggered a police investigation, beginning with labeling the statement of a
personal opinion "a breach of public order," followed by media suggestions of
"hate crime."
The Bishop is one of the authors of the Church of England's report, "Some
Issues In Human Sexuality: A Guide to the Debate." Forster personally opposes
the ordination of gay bishops, and was one of the participants in the
preparation of the document, which urges a full church debate on matters
relating to sexuality. The report also states that homosexuals, bisexuals, and
transgendered persons within the Church of England fold should be extended
"understanding, support, and unconditional love."
Forster, who is Bishop of Chester, was interviewed by the Chronicle following
the release of the church paper. It was during this interview that the Bishop
made the following statement that ignited the firestorm of controversy:
"Some people who are primarily homosexual can [reorient] themselves.
I would encourage them to consider that as an option, but I would not set
myself up as a medical specialist on the subject - that's in the area of
psychiatric health. We want to help them, but I don't offer it as a panacea. I
am about giving honor to marriage."
When the story broke nationally throughout the United Kingdom, Cheshire
Police began a criminal investigation, with Manchester Online putting forth the
opinion that the Bishop had committed a "hate crime."
Chief Peter Fahey of the Cheshire Police told the British Broadcasting
Corporation that the Bishops remarks are "totally unacceptable" in "a civilized
society." He then went on to say that his police force deals on a daily basis
with "offenses committed against members of minority communities which are
generated by hate and prejudice."
Bishop Forster's office is currently declining comment on the on-going
situation.
Updated: 8 February 2008
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