INTRODUCTION
We, the Religious Leaders Network for Choice would like to address the Nation through this press statement calling upon all religious bodies to respect the dignity of all human beings irrespective of their difference in gender, sexuality and any notable diversity. We make this call being in mind the current affairs in the International as well as local Church.
BACKGROUND
On 19th December 2023, the Holy See of the Roman Catholic Church issued a statement which has been received with mixed reactions across the globe. We are not in any better position to interpret the same but we highly recommend the Holy See for coming out open and accept the presence of the LGBTI within our societies and within our Churches. We believe that this is a very good move as it emphasises the fact that every life is sacred and has to be respected and protected despite there being any diversity.
OUR CALL TO THE CHRISTIAN FRATERNITY
We would like to take this opportunity to make a call to all churches in Malawi to emulate this gesture; to accept the presence of the LGBTI community in Malawi and within our Churches and develop Christ centred ways and means of reaching out to them without any discrimination and stigmatization. Members of the LGBTI community, like anyone else were created in the image of God and there are also in need of God’s unmerited blessings.
We are aware that every denomination has its particular doctrines that make it distinct from the other. But we are also aware that every denomination especially in the Christian fraternity is built on the principle of Loving God and Loving the neighbour. We cannot say we love God when we don’t love the person whom we live closer to just because he or she identifies differently from us.
We believe that this is an opportune time to call upon all denominations to take a leading role in teaching their followers to stop any forms of homophobia, social and religious exclusion and injustice towards
As we celebrate Christmas, we call upon all Christians to deeply meditate on the gospel according to John 3:16-17 which reads, ‘For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Hi. (NIV) The good news of our Lord Jesus is intended for all including those who are on the margins of society, those that are ostracized and discriminated against for whatever reasons and it is the duty of the faith community to ensure that Love reigns and hate is defeated.
CONCLUSION
The Christian concept of Imago Dei is very paramount in this context where all human beings are called to treat each other with love, and respect as they are all created in the image of God. It is the duty of all Religious leaders to read and interpret the ancient Word of God to ensure that the Word is relevant to the contemporary life situation of all individuals.
Signed.
Rev Fr Martin Bob Kalimbe
Trustees Chairperson
Religious Leaders Network for Choice.