- Churches in North-Norway guarantee homosexuals that they
will be welcomed without prejudice. The parishes of Svolvaer and Vagan
promise that no negative words can be uttered towards gay churchgoers in
their churches, a promise that is bound not to please everyone.
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- In Svolvaer Church parish council member Yngve Henriksen
hangs the rainbow colored flag used as homosexuality's banner. The flag
is meant to show gays and lesbians that they are welcome here and can worship
without fear of finding themselves the subject of a fiery sermon, newspaper
Lofotposten reports.
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- The two parish councils voted to do something to fight
negative attitudes towards homosexuals.
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- "The church has a sad history in that respect,"
parish educator Torbjoern Ollestad told the newspaper.
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- Vagan Church was quick to fly the welcoming banner, Svolvaer
debated the issue for over a year before an 8-2 majority raised the flag.
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- Acting rector Gisle Melling pointed out that the decision
will affect all who speak in the churches.
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- "Everyone must respect the council's decision. This
flag clearly states that no attacks on homosexuals will be accepted here.
People who have other viewpoints must simply remain silent. That applies
to priests as well," Melling said.
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- The clergyfolk and council members stressed that the
flag also symbolized a positive attitude towards homosexual clergy, including
those that wish to live in partnership.
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- Svein Tennes, leader of Svolvaer's parish council doesn't
think the flag-waving is a good idea, and expects many parishioners will
react.
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- "I do not think this will help the homosexual cause.
There are strong feelings about this in the congregation, and I don't think
the flag is a good idea," Tennes said.
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- Tennes said the gesture would only cause confusion since
the clergy should tend to the interests of the entire congregation, without
granting any special treatment and wondered if the door had been opened
to demands for a flag for any group with a grievance.
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- http://www.aftenposten.no/english/local/article.jhtml?articleID=672971
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