Why I am marching with the Uniting Church in the Mardi Gras - Liz Yeo

Why is there so much fear in the Uniting Church around the issue of sexuality?

Why should we fear a group of gay and lesbian Christians, heterosexual people, ministers, family members etc wanting to say to the community that we celebrate our diversity, we believe it is a God given gift, we do not think anyone should be treated differently on the basis on one aspect of their lives?

A group of Christians marching in the Mardi Gras is being seen by some as a provocative act.

Jesus Christ was provocative in his radical inclusiveness of people who were different or outcast. He said nothing that is recorded about homosexuality. His message was one of love and compassion without judgment. His harsh words were reserved for the self righteous religious people.

Instead of getting carried away with the business of love and compassion, the church seems to get most passionate about sex and sexuality and particularly homosexuality.

Most gay or lesbian people who have grown up in the church have inherited the belief that homosexuality is wrong. Many have sincerely attempted to change their homosexual orientation in order to be accepted. I don't know anyone who has honestly succeeded. Most of us have then found little alternative but to leave the church, or to stay in the pews or the pulpit in silence and fear - hoping we are never "found out".

I have spoken to half a dozen people in the last two weeks who have had to seriously consider whether they should join this Uniting Church group because they are afraid it may affect their current or future work in the church.

I am marching because I don't think Christianity is about living in such fear. I believe it is about living life to the full, about living honestly, about being human. It is about love, compassion and justice.

I am marching because I believe the Uniting Church can become a truly inclusive church where we celebrate our diversity rather than fearing it.

statement from Liz Yeo
Press Conference Tuesday 24th February 1998