Presbyterians and same-sex couples

Sir,–The courage of the 600 protesting Presbyterians who have highlighted their concern at the policy barring same-sex couples adopted by the general assembly in June is very welcome.

This policy is so hurtful to gay couples and to children of gay couples, and to me it appears unchristian.

There are many challenging issues facing society and the church and yet this policy appears to have been selectively singled out and adopted. It appears to have been arrived at without full and proper consultation and debate among Presbyterians and it is out of kilter with what many of us think.

I echo the call for proper consultation and engagement by the church leadership with all members on major issues.

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The Presbyterian Church proudly stresses its democratic structures. The hope is that these structures will serve us well as this issue is further debated. – Yours, etc,

WILLIE H MAXWELL,

Donabate,

Co Dublin.