The following was submitted to and published by the local press In Theory religious section in response to a question regarding the treatment of gays and lesbians by churches, and referencing the recent expulsion by a MA Catholic school of a boy because his parents were gay.  Apparently the expulsion was heavily criticized.

I am aware that, for many religious denominations, homosexuality remains a complex moral issue. However, Unitarian Universalists have a long history of affirming the worth and dignity of all human beings – regardless of sexual orientation.

In fact, our congregations welcome human diversity as a gift and actively work for equality in our hearts and minds, as well as under the law.

The latter equality, where it has been achieved, affords committed gay or lesbian couples the same rights and responsibilities as heterosexuals joined together in marriage.  Which, among other things, allows children raised in these homes to know themselves and their families as “just like” all others.  And certainly deserving of the same right to education!

It is baffling to me that some would be moved to, in effect, punish a child…for the God-given sexual orientation of the parents.

How can this be considered a moral act, grounded in God’s love?

It is equally thrilling to learn that our collective understanding of morality has progressed to such a point that there was heavy criticism this past week of the decision by a Massachusetts Roman Catholic school to remove a child of lesbian parents.

As thrilling as it is to note when religious communities grapple with the practical application of moral standards, choosing to acknowledge and value among them the presence and ministry of gays and lesbians seeking to serve their Creator.

My hope is that we get to the point where we don’t have to ask whether gays and lesbians are treated equally and fairly – just as we don’t have to ask whether there are imposed inequities between people with blue eyes and people with green eyes.

The distinctions would no longer be considered significant in any way, other than that they are a gift to be celebrated.