Homosexuality Target: What is homosexuality? L/O – You will know how the Church responds to homosexuality
What Is It? • Homosexuality comes from the Latin words meaning “same” and “sex”. • A homosexual is someone attracted to somebody of the same sex. • The word Lesbian is taken from the Greek Island of Lesbos where Sappho expressed her love through poetry for other women. • A Bi-sexual is someone attracted to members of both sexes. • A Hetro Sexual is someone attracted to members of the opposite sex.
Why are people homosexual? • There is disagreement over what makes people homosexual. • It is genetic. They are born homosexual. • Family Background explains homosexuality: Eg, a mothers relationship with her son.
The Law • Until 1967 it was illegal to be involved in gay male sex. • In1967 homosexual activity became legal under two conditions: • All such activity took place in private. • They had to be over 21.
Britain in 2006. • The age of consent has been reduced to 16. • Gay couples can now have their relationships legally blessed. This means they have the same legal rights as married couples. (right) • Many people still dislike homosexuality. Such a fear is named “homophobia”. People can be described as homophobic.
The Church and Homosexuality • No Christian Church condemns homosexuals. It would be like blaming people for being deaf or blind. • The Church however condemns homosexual activity. Any sex act should be open to the transmission of life. The Roman Catholic Church condemn masturbation and sex before marriage.
Biblical quotes • “You shall not lie with a man as with a woman”. Levictus • Jesus makes no comment, referring only to the coming together of man and woman until they are one flesh. • St Paul condemns homosexuality, along with drunkards, adulterers and thieves.
Activities 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
According to the Christian Church, what is the purpose of sex and in what sort of relationship it should take place. Explain the meaning of the following words: Homosexuality, Hetrosexuality, Bisexuality. What is the Church’s view on homosexuality? What law change happened in 1967? Can you remember what other law was changed in this year. (think of another topic you have done). How was the law altered in 2006? What is the bible’s approach towards homosexuality? What is the purpose of marriage according to Christians? (Think about what being in a relationship provides to children and each other)