This history-making global summit organized by the General Conference, entitled, “In God’s Image: Scripture. Sexuality. Society” convened in the picturesque city of Capetown in South Africa from March 17-20, 2014. On the opening day, 382 delegates with their spouses representing all the Divisions and attached fields of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, registered for this meeting at the Capetown International Convention Center (CTICC).
The program was power packed with devotionals, panels addressing the main issues behind alternative sexualities, studies into hermeneutics of texts often used to condone homosexuality and presentations covering the social, legal, ethical and medical perspectives rounded out the conference. Breakout sessions were held both at the Pavilion Conference Center in addition to the CTICC. Furthermore, lively question-and-answer periods accompanied presentations and panel discussions.
The objectives of the Summit were very clear. Summarized in two words: commitment and compassion–a commitment to the Biblical stand on the sinful practice of homosexuality and how as a Church we are to respond with compassion to those who are struggling with this temptation. As the Seventh-day Adventist Church, we came together to study the Biblical teaching on alternative sexualities and to understand some facets of the developmental and sociological factors that are thought to contribute to alternative sexualities. Also legal issues related to alternative sexuality practices wereto be addressed. Most importantly, based on a deeper understanding of this issue, the Summit hoped to describe the content and methods in educating church members on some realities about alternative sexualities.
On Tuesday evening, a three-member team of two men and a woman (Wayne Blakely, Ron Woolsey and Virna Santos) who have “come out” of homosexuality was interviewed by Bill Knott, editor of the Adventist Review. Their testimonies of how the all-powerful God brought them out of the darkness into His marvelous light thrilled the hearts of all present. All three individuals are now part of a ten-member team working for “Know His Love Ministry,” an outreach to homosexuals.
Indeed, the Summit was not about policies and politics (although these have a place), but it is all about people, all about howsinners saved by grace can reach out to a much alienated group of earnest souls who are seeking the Light. It’s about learning how we can surround them with love, care and kindnessand invite them to join us in our journey to the Kingdom as they find freedom from their shackles in Jesus Christ alone!
By Sally Lam-Phoon