From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG Augusta Chronicle Letter Date: Thu, 10 Apr 1997 23:59:54 -0400 (EDT) The following went out on IWG letterhead listing 9 congregations and religious organizations and 38 clergy from 13 faiths and denominations. If you are in the general Philadelphia area and represent a congregation or religious organization or are clergy, let us know if you want to be added - all faiths are welcome. We will also be happy to help start similar organizations in other areas. April 10, 1997 The Augusta Chronicle Box 1928 Augusta, GA 30913 Dear Editors: We were completely appalled by your April 9 editorial. Every great religion does not teach that same-gender sexual activity is immoral, unless you are limiting "great religions" to those you approve of. Since you say that we should honor the Judeo-Christian principles of the founding fathers, are you including Buddhism, Islam and Hinduism? In addition to these and Judaism and Christianity, there are so many sects in each religious tradition--and so many other religious traditions not mentioned here--that your statement about their attitude toward homosexuality is ridiculously broad. Certainly within Judaism and Christianity there is little consensus on this subject. The recent disagreement within the Presbyterian Church (USA) is typical of discussions occurring throughout the religious community and is further evidence of the growing number of people of faith who support the moral equivalence of same-gender relationships and refute the claim that homosexuality is inherently sinful. Sincerely, Barbara Purdom Christopher Purdom Interfaith Working Group Coordinators -- Interfaith Working Group Religious organizations, congregations iwg@libertynet.org and clergy supporting gay rights, http://www.libertynet.org/~iwg/ reproductive freedom, and the 215-235-3050 separation of church and state.