GAY MARRIAGE DEBATE GOES “GLOBAL”: HOMOSEXUALITY IS ONE OF MANY SEXUAL BEHAVIORS THAT THREATEN THE FAMILY

The growing debate over gay marriage was in sharp focus during the opening sessions of the World Congress of Families III.

“Any sexual behavior outside of marriage threatens the traditional family”, said Peter Sprigg, Senior Director of Policy Studies at the Family Research Council in Washington, DC. “Pornography, incest, premarital sex as well as homosexuality are destructive to families and individuals.”

“We are not homophobic and we do not hate homosexuals; on the contrary we want what is best for them. That is why we must oppose the radical gay agenda that has been attempting to “normalize” homosexual behavior since the early 1970’s.”

Others at the Congress echoed Mr. Sprigg’s views. “Since homosexual marriage is a clear and present danger to the family – and the Congress is the largest international gathering of pro-family leaders and activists – the issue is high on everyone’s agenda,” said Allan Carlson, U.S. convener of WCF III.

“The theme of this Congress is ‘The Natural Family & The Future of Nations,’” Carlson noted. “Governments don’t create families. They can recognize and nurture them, or destabilize and de-legitimize them. Homosexual marriage is the most potent weapon yet devised for the latter.

“Society’s essential work of raising the next generation will always be done by men and women, fathers and mothers, united in love – sanctioned by faith and tradition – in the stable environment of the family. Any competing models sanctioned by the state – including two men, two women or multiple partners – automatically undercuts real families and detracts from their vital mission,” said Carlson.

Several organizations represented in Mexico City are in the forefront of the marriage battle in the US, including American Family Association, Christian Coalition of America, Concerned Women for America and Family Research Council.

More than 3,200 delegates from over 75 nations are attending the World Congress of Families III in Mexico City this week, where they will share ideas, educate and formulate pro-family strategy for the new millennium.