From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG Des Moines Register Sabin Opinion Thank You Date: Sat, 7 Feb 1998 23:36:41 -0500 (EST) The following went out on IWG letterhead listing 12 congregations and organizations and 54 clergy from 15 religious traditions. 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. February 6, 1998 The Des Moines Register Box 957 Des Moines, IA 50304 Dear Editors: Thank you very much for the February 6 opinion regarding the Rev. Steven Sabin and supporting tolerance of sexual minorities. It is sad that so many denominations have chosen to concentrate on the importance of beliefs and practices that serve (intentionally or not) to reinforce social prejudices instead of taking a leadership role preaching love and respect in a society becoming more diverse and closely linked every day. We are very glad that the Lord of Life Lutheran Church has taken a leadership role in their denomination by supporting their pastor, Rev. Sabin. In the near future, we can expect more of the same in many denominations. Last year the Episcopalians considered trying a retired bishop for heresy (ordaining an openly gay man). This year in addition to the case of Rev. Sabin in the ELCA, there has already been a hearing in the Presbyterian Church (USA) over the Covenant of Dissent passed by the Presbytery of Milwaukee; the PCUSA also expects to hear two cases involving the ordination of gay elders, and the Rev. Jimmy Creech of Omaha will be tried in a Methodist Court for performing a union ceremony. 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.