Who Are the Bigots?

The views I express here are my own and, while I believe they are parallel, they are not the views of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

No on 8 supporters have made a commercial that erodes all credibility when they call for tolerance and acceptance. They say that the Yes on 8 campaign is full of lies and we obscure the facts. Then they create this commercial demonizing missionaries. When has the church demonized No on 8 supporters? When has the church attacked homosexuals in any way? If you actually read the literature the church has released regarding homosexuality, you will find that it is full of love and understanding. It strongly emphasizes the love God has for all his children, especially for those who struggle with situations like homosexuality. He knows it is hard. That is why he provided His Son to be there as a comfort and a guide through difficult times. There is nothing in the Church's position on homosexuality that is hateful or bigoted. In almost no other issue have I seen God's love emphasized so much.

God loves all, but He does not accept all we do. He has condemned specific acts because they do not fit in His plan, which is designed to bring the greatest happiness to those who choose to obey. It is not arbitrary. It is based on eternal truths that cannot be broken. Fundamental to this plan are a man and woman marrying and working together towards exaltation - life with God. Part of that work is having and raising children. There are situations in which this ideal does not work out. But that does not mean that we are not required to try. The possibility of failure is no excuse for making no effort. There are all kinds of obstacles placed in the lives of people. Homosexuality is one of these. Those who are homosexual are children of God with the same potential as all others, but along with that potential comes the same responsibility. There are not different requirements and rules depending on our circumstances.

The point of all that is simply to state my understanding of the Church's position. It is not one of misunderstanding, hate, prejudice, or bigotry. It is based upon a belief that No on 8 supporters do not share. I do not vilify No on 8 supporters or homosexuals. While there are, unfortunately, those who do vilify homosexuals, I do not and I have seen nothing from the Church that does.

Here is the Church's statement:

The Church has joined a broad-based coalition in defense of traditional marriage. While we feel this is important to all of society, we have always emphasized that respect be given to those who feel differently on this issue. It is unfortunate that some who oppose this proposition have not given the Church this same courtesy.

From the KSL website.