Sunday, October 24, 2004
Fw: [catholicACT] a protestant point of homosexual
Not Acting on their Attractions
From Individual to Individual
It has been shown that for many people, the complete elimination of same-gender attractions will never be a reality. The moral and theological concerns we have must address this reality. Even Scripture withholds the fulfillment of its promise of perfection until the final coming of God's Kingdom. Following is a typical response that is given to clients when they ask if orientation change will take place as a result of receiving reparative therapy, as reported by Dr. Joseph Nicolosi:
"Of those who enter therapy, one-third experience no change (typically, they decide to leave therapy within the first few months); one-third learn the skills and achieve the self-insight to experience a significant reduction in the intensity and frequency of their homosexual attractions; and one-third overcome their homosexuality, with same-sex attractions no longer being a significant issue in their lives. The latter group is that which is most likely to move on to a long-term heterosexual relationship or marriage."
Next, we must recognize that while prayer and attempts at "faith healing by divine intervention" can be a useful tool and have some positive results, those results are often not instantaneous. For many, the process is a long road with many obstacles to overcome along the way. In this regard, we must be willing to accept these limitations and not abandon or condemn those who cannot realize complete change. Instead, we must continue to be a source of loving ministry to them. It is my hope and prayer that some day we can offer ministries in every religious community which will provide longterm, loving care and understanding for those who struggle with same-gender attractions.
Rev. / Chaplain Kent L. Svendsen
