• We begin by saying that we are deeply saddened that people who are LGBTQ+ have been treated in homophobic, transphobic, unloving, and ungodly ways within some churches, and for this we are truly sorry.

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• We affirm that we are seeking to be Biblical in our approach to issues of human sexuality. We agree that the Bible is the authoritative Word of God, recognising that our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, God manifest in the flesh, is the sole and absolute authority as revealed in the Holy Scriptures, and is the final arbiter on all matters of faith and practice.  

 

• We also affirm that we are seeking to be compassionate in our relationship with all in the LGBTQ+ community, believing we are all deeply loved by God.  

 

• The majority in our church feel that we should not behave differently towards people in gay or lesbian relationships from those in heterosexual relationships. The majority also feel that we should not behave differently towards Trans and Gender diverse people than anyone else involved in the life of our church. 

 

• We recognise that within OBC there is a range of views held about gay and lesbian relationships, and Trans and Gender diversity, and there is a range of different interpretations of the biblical teachings. We have agreed that it is possible to continue in joyful fellowship and covenant relationship in the same church with those who, through their own process of reflection and discernment, have come to a different place in their thinking than our own. 

 

• Our conviction as a church is that sexual activity should be reserved for committed long-term relationships (e.g. marriage), although there are some within the church who would advocate celibacy for people in gay or lesbian relationships.  

 

• We affirm the Bible teaches God created human beings as male and female. However, we recognise that some people’s sex and/or gender does not fit easily into this binary. 

 

• We affirm that LGBTQ+ people, including those in homosexual relationships, are welcome to participate in the life of the church, to become church members and to take part in the activities and ministries of the church. 

 

• We affirm that LGBTQ+ people, including those in homosexual relationships, are welcome to serve in leadership positions within the church, recognising that some positions require a vote by the membership.