From an article I’ve just read in Christian Century (‘Explosive Issues’ by Carl Dudley & Hugh Halverstadt, March 3, 1999, p. 236):

‘Speed Leas, an experienced consultant in church crises, describes the highest level of conflict as an emotional condition in which one side wants to destroy the opposition… He identifies a slightly lower level of conflict which is the “fight or flight” condition: each side is willing to engage the other, but both still have the freedom to withdraw from conflict.

‘When questions of accepting homosexuals into mainline churches arise, many people have such powerful and unexamined emotions that the conflict immediately reaches those high levels of intensity… Managing conflict in such situations can be likened to trying to worship when grenades are rolling under the pews. [There’s an] irrational anger that often overwhelms efforts to explore differing views on sexual orientation…

‘Congregations cannot broach such an issue as if it could be settled through rational discussion and democratic decisions. Until church members, gay and straight, deal with their own gut feelings, they will not be able to use their heads about homosexuality.

‘Using time-tested governance procedures, congregations often attempt to assess the facts, examine scriptural and historical precedents, consider alternatives, encourage participation in open debate, allocate responsibilities to proper authorities, and finally reach a decision. Then they are surprised when the congregation explodes.

‘Until people’s emotions have been engaged in a pastoral way, “facts”, “research”, “open forums” and especially “issue-debating meetings” are likely to contribute to escalating confrontations, polarizing power struggles and ugly exchanges that leave deep wounds in the hearts of both individuals and groups…

‘The social and personal shame of all members must be transformed if they are to rediscover their unity in Christ… Leaders must help create a place where people can safely talk about previously unspeakable forms of love and friendship…

‘Trust is the key element of leadership, more important than theological position or leadership style.’

Now, my comment: Here’s a fairly good test as to whether the emotional/gut-level stuff has been dealt with: Ask the group ‘Would it make any difference to your Christian faith if it could be proved Jesus was a homosexual?’

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Shalom! Rowland Croucher