The Episcopal Church stands resolute

Score one for tolerance.

The U.S.-based Episcopal Church (from which my heritage, if not my beliefs, derives) is maintaining its stance in support of gay rights, which has included the welcoming of gay and lesbian parishioners, blessing of gay marriages, and the consecration of gay clergy, including at least one bishop. Even though they might end up being expelled from the worldwide Anglican Communion and they face noisome opposition from within, they are holding fast to the position that gays and lesbians are entitled to full participation in the Church as much as anyone else.

The increasingly exclusionary practices of organized religion, especially Christianity, are what have driven me away from regular church attendance over the last several years. I strongly believe that the Bible teaches tolerance and acceptance over all else, and I am dismayed and, at times, appalled by the hatred spewed by those who hold themselves out as devout members of a community of faith. Perhaps this action by American Episcopals will empower members of other denominations to stand up and refuse to accept bigotry anymore.