By David Young, Belfast Telegraph.
The only Presbyterian minister in Ireland who publicly welcomed the Yes vote in the Republic’s same-sex marriage referendum has now accepted that “marriage must be between one man and one woman” – and that “homosexual practice is sinful”.
Rev. Christina Bradley, who ministers at Armagh Road Presbyterian Church in Portadown, is well-known in Church circles as an independent, strong-minded free-thinker.
After the referendum in May, when 62% voted yes to same-sex marriage, Rev. Bradley described the result as “inclusive and compassionate”.
She said at the time: “This warm-heartedness is good to see in a world which often is a cold place as much for women in leadership as it is for gay and lesbian people in churches. I welcome the Yes vote.”
Her words sparked a special Presbyterian commission to investigate her views.
The commission’s verdict was read out in her church on Sunday by the clerk of session while Rev Bradley looked on.
The statement said: “Mrs Bradley confirmed to Presbytery that she fully accepts the teaching of the Westminster Confession of Faith, that “marriage is to be between one man and one woman”.
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Wow, what a news flash! A German born minister serving in the UK in a church with 96% membership in the UK is forced by her Presbytery to back off her comments supporting a vote in the Republic of Ireland. Stop the presses!