The North American Mission Board on Aug. 29
released new Guidelines (
full text) clarifying the expectations for all military and VA chaplains endorsed by the Southern Baptist Convention in light of the Supreme Court's invalidation of the Defense of Marriage Act. The new Guidelines provide in part:
All ministries regarding human sexuality will reflect the historic, natural and biblical view of marriage as God's lifelong gift of "the uniting of one man and one woman in covenant commitment for a lifetime."...
Southern Baptists believe that "all forms of sexual immorality, including adultery, homosexuality and pornography" ... are condemned by Holy Scripture as sin.... Responsible pastoral care will seek to offer repentance and forgiveness, help and healing, and restoration through the mercy and grace of Jesus Christ;s sacrificial gift of love on the cross.
NAMB-endorsed chaplains will not conduct or attend a wedding ceremony for any same-sex couple, bless such a union or perform counseling in support of such a union, assist or support paid contractors or volunteers leading same-sex relational events, nor offer any kind of relationship training or retreat, on or off of a military installation, that would give the appearance of accepting the homosexual lifestyle or sexual wrongdoing. This biblical prohibition remains in effect irrespective of any civil law authorizing same-sex marriage or benefits to the contrary....
[NAMB-endorsed chaplains may not conduct] a service jointly with a chaplain, contractor or volunteer who personally practices a homosexual lifestyle or affirms a homosexual lifestyle or such conduct.
AP reports on the new Guidelines.
