The Church of Scotland is threaded on thin water with their unorthodox appointment of a gay minister. In a ground-breaking move, the Church's ruling body voted by 326 to 267 in support of the Reverend Scott Rennie. The 37-year-old's appointment at Queen's Cross Church in Aberdeen, on Scotland's northeast coast, provoked opposition from traditionalist members of the church and has led to fears it could cause a damaging split. The crux of this issue present a fascinating debate about gay rights vs religious views.
Before the voting, there were claims that there was a concerted effort by the Church's elders to cover up the fact Scott was gay.
Rev Mike Mair, the locum minister at Queen’s Cross, however, stressed that there was NO attempt to conceal the minister’s sexuality.
More than 5,500 people have signed a petition to block the 37-year-old’s appointment to Queen’s Cross Church in Aberdeen — including nearly 300 fellow Church of Scotland ministers.
But Rev Rennie — who revealed the break-up of his marriage and the death of his mother made him face up to his sexuality — insists his faith has not been shaken.
The under-fire cleric — who has a seven-year-old daughter with ex-wife Ruth — admitted he hid his homosexuality, fearing he would become a target for bullying.
About Rev Scott Rennie
Rev Rennie was minister at Brechin Cathedral in Angus before applying for Queen’s Cross last June.
He was elected by the congregation and his appointment approved by the Presbytery of Aberdeen.
But 12 people appealed the decision and the case was referred to the General Assembly — which will rule later this month. The decision will test the Kirk’s 2007 act which bans discrimination on the grounds of “sexual orientation”.
Rev Sharon Ferguson, chief of the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement, says the act must be upheld.
From CNN - Church of Scotland endorses gay minister's appointment
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