Homosexuality

By The Very Rev. Dr. Brian Baker, Dean of the Cathedral
Trinity Cathedral, Sacramento, California

Written for the Sacramento News and Review

I attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, where gay people did not exist. I then served in the Army where gay people did not exist. I then attended a seminary that, at the time, had an express policy against gay students, so consequently, they did not exist. I became an Episcopal priest in 1991 without having ever, to my knowledge, met a gay or lesbian person. Of course they were always there; I just did not have the eyes to see.

I was a new, young priest in Hawaii yearning for clergy colleagues. I met Maggie, who was my age and who had, like me, just graduated from seminary. Like me, she had a dog. And judging by the ring on her finger, like me, she was married. I knew in my heart that I had found a friend. Then my life took an unexpected turn when Maggie said, “My spouse’s name is Linda.”

While I knew that there were some passages in the Bible that people used to condemn homosexuals, I was sure the Jesus who embraced all the oppressed groups of his day must want me to look at those passages with fresh eyes. My eyes saw that Maggie and Linda had a lovely, committed relationship. There was no significant difference between their relationship and my marriage, their commitment and my marriage were just the same, expect except they had to deal with the prejudice of other people and they couldn’t be “legally” married. Maggie and Linda became close friends. They helped us care for our first child when she was born.

I also got to worship with Maggie’s congregation where most members were gay or lesbian. They had a depth of love that I envied. God’s Spirit was clearly present.

In the fifteen years since meeting Maggie, my initial impression has been strengthened. I see no reason why gay and lesbian individuals should not receive the same rights as me. I do not understand why our society should not support a homosexual couple’s desire for a committed lifelong relationship with rites and laws. I cannot understand how another couple’s committed relationship can be a threat to my marriage.

Prejudice against homosexuals is wrong. What’s worse is that this prejudice is supported by some Christians and their teachings. None of the Bible passages they cite describe anything like the committed and loving relationship I came to know between Maggie and Linda. At Trinity Cathedral I am pleased to have found a congregation that is enriched by, and openly welcomes, many gay and lesbian individuals and couples.

Brian Baker
October 2006