Teachings on homosexuality by denomination
Daily Press

Southern Baptist -- The church considers homosexuality to be a sin, but not unpardonable. In the church's publication, titled "Critical Issues: Homosexuality," the Southern Baptist Convention states that gays and lesbians can change their orientation; that homosexuality is rooted in a poor relationship with one's parents; and that discrimination against gays and lesbians is acceptable by employers and other social institutions.

Catholic -- The Roman Catholic Church recognizes homosexuality as an inborn orientation, not a chosen behavior. But the church considers the homosexual orientation to be "objectively disordered" and considers homosexual practices to be grave sins. The church calls on its members to accept homosexuals "with respect, compassion and sensitivity" but demands that gays and lesbians (as well as all unmarried people) abstain from sexual activity. (Quoted portions come from "Considerations regarding proposals to give legal recognition to unions between homosexual persons," Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, 2003.)

Episcopal -- In 1994, almost 100 Episcopal bishops signed a petition stating that gays and lesbians should be considered for the clergy if they "live out their sexual orientation in a partnership that is marked by faithfulness and life-giving holiness." The church continued to consider the issue, and in 2004 took steps toward approving the ordination of gays and lesbians as ministers, and toward a church ritual blessing same-sex unions. These decisions caused much debate and dissension among the church's members nationwide. In 2003, the Rev. Gene Robinson of New Hampshire was confirmed as the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church. the rest