Father John Ardis of St. John 23rd UT Catholic Center – Addresses teachings of US Catholic Bishops: in 1976 they taught that orientation is how God created people; in 1990 they reaffirmed this teaching; violent speech or action against homosexuals is deplorable and should be condemned; confront fears and cut the offensive humor and discrimination; homosexual orientation brings with it enough difficulties without society adding on. Urges commission to deny resolution and attend an upcoming workshop on homophobia.
QUOTES:
“In 1976…the bishops taught that one’s orientation, whether it be heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, was the way that God created them.
“…On the basis of the tradition of which I represent, I ask you Commissioners to consider, it just happens that this week we are hosting a national workshop, ‘Homophobia in Religion and Society,’ it’s coming this Wednesday, from 8:30 to 3:30, provided for the Center for Homophobia Education. I certainly encourage you to deny this piece of legislation, and certainly encourage you to try to attend that workshop.”
Video produced by and used with permission from Community Television of Knoxville.
1993 Knox County Commission's anti-gay Resolution 121 (TN) 