Just recently, we saw on TV popular local singer Aiza Seguerra offering her girlfriend an engagement ring which the latter accepted with tears of joy. Behind them could be seen Aiza’s mother, all smiles in obvious approval. The two plan to get married in some US state where same-sex marriage is now legal. Other celebrities who are into gay or lesbian relationship have also opted to marry their partners abroad, unmindful of public opinion and the sanctions coming from our local Church.
In Congress, a bill to make legal same-sex marriage (along with divorce and abortion) has been filed, although some church groups are up in protest against its passage. It can be said that this generation has produced more gays and lesbians than the previous ones, and studies cite several factors contributing to this (broken homes, parental neglect, child abuse, exposure to pornographic materials, western influences, etc.)
The Bible tells us that God made man and woman; no third sex. He meant man for woman, not man for another man nor woman for another woman. Same sex union is considered an offense against God. This was the sin of the people of Sodom and Gomorrah and God rained fire on them.
Of course, God is all merciful and kind and understands our weaknesses. But we need to obey His will and be strengthened by His grace. We need to overcome the things that are pulling us down toward the abyss. If “live-in” relationship among gays and lesbians is considered sinful, how much more same-sex marriage which insults the Lord who Himself instituted matrimony between a man and a woman as a sacrament?
I cannot and do not condemn gays and lesbians. The truth is I sympathize with them. They cannot be blamed for growing up different, feeling attracted to the same sex. Although falling in love and the need to be loved are things normal for everyone, including gays and lesbians, it is my hope that they try instead to divert more of their affection and attention to a higher form of love—and that is the love for humanity and love of God. I believe, thus, will they find true happiness and a clear path to salvation.
—THERESA PILI-NISPEROS,
Gagalangin, Tondo, Manila