Rev. Canon William A. Kolb

As with many controversial issues, I can only speak for myself. While many Christians may have problems with various aspects of homosexuality, I believe that the overriding theological perspective is one that was so inspiring as former Presiding Bishop Edmund Browning's "signature line": "there are no outcasts." For me, that is the headline and the bottom line to the life of a Christian. Not one of us has the authority or the unblemished life with which to declare that someone else ought to be left out of anything.

In addition to that theological perspective on the question, I have to add that I have had the joy of meeting and getting to know a number of "gay" couples, who have just been a blessing in my life as dear friends. I have also observed them to be faithful to all their commitments and in some cases, outstanding leaders in the Church community.

I was brought up as part of a generation who believed what we heard: that homosexuality is "other," "wrong," etc. I have learned that homosexual orientation is, in most cases, a "given" at birth and that it is possible for "gay couples" to live monogamous, productive lives of dignity and as good examples of what it means to be human. As much as my roots grew in what probably was a homophobic culture (although now that I think of it, my family had a number of gay friends in the 40's and 50's, whom they loved), I will not be part of pointing fingers at any group, gay or otherwise.

May God make peace and community our overriding yearnings in all things.

 


 

 

   The Rev. Canon William A. Kolb
Interim Rector, Eastern Shore Chapel Episcopal Church
Virginia Beach, VA

An alumnus of The University of Florida and the Protestant Episcopal Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Virginia, Bill served in the United States Navy and spent 10 years in business and mental health services before entering seminary. He has served parishes in South Carolina, Missouri, New York, Mississippi, and at Calvary Church in Memphis, TN. In total, Bill has been in parish ministry for over 30 years. Additionally, he has authored several theological articles, including a commentary on an ancient prayer ("…for people who work and watch and weep this night…") published in The Anglican Digest.