IAM Public Statement
Dear IAM Supporters and Allies
Public Statement
Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM) applauds the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) General Synod for their stance taken on the 9th of October 2015 in allowing a season of healing to enter the Church for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) people marginalised for centuries.
The decision reaffirms the equality of all people regardless of sexual orientation and commits to the dignity of all people created in the image of God.
It recognizes the diversity of opinions on sexual orientation, same sex relationships, civil unions and marriages within the DRC and calls on all to continue dealing with the issue in a spirit of Christian Love and Grace.
It acknowledges the status of civil unions of persons of the same sex that is characterized by love and fidelity and provides that ministers can confirm these commitments.
IAM is deeply convinced that moving towards radical inclusion and the celebration of diversity within faith communities is what the Gospel truly stands for and needs to be made visible through the unity of all people committed to journey together through dialogue in safe spaces, despite differences on various levels and in all walks of life.
With faith as a compass and love as a guiding principle, such journeys can be trusted in the midst of misunderstanding, fear of the unknown and even suffering because the grace of God is there to sustain us.
IAM stands in solidarity with the courageous decision taken and prays that other faith communities in South Africa, Africa and in the World will be inspired to follow suite, moving towards radical inclusion and the celebration of the gift of diversity.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Rev. Judith Kotze (ex-officio)
Ms Ingrid Schoonraad (ex-officio)
Rev Ecclesia de Lange (ex-officio)
Rev Alan Storey (Meth)
Mr Andre du Preez (DRC/Chairs)
Rev Siyabulela Gidi (Ang)
Me Elisabeth Peterson (Ang)
Rev Phumzile Mabizela (Meth)
Dr Elsa Steyn (DRC)
Rev Patrick Godana (Luth)
Mrs. Bronwin Grobler (Meth)
