Report by: Phil Lees
For the past 18 days it has been an honor to tour Hawaii with pastors and legislators sharing the effect Senate Bill 1 (Marriage Equality – Same Sex Marriage) will have on education, families, the church, and the culture of Hawaii. When asked how I have enjoyed my time in Hawaii, the response, “I have become familiar with many of your churches and all of your airports” is an accurate reflection of our time here. We have been to most of the islands sharing with the people.
I shared that, since Same Sex Marriage (SSM) was adopted in Canada, Ontario now mandates Gay Straight Alliance Clubs in schools, integrates into all subjects & all grade levels positive LGBT messaging, and churches renting school facilities are to operate under the provincial code of Conduct. This has resulted in loss of our constitutional freedoms of conscience and religion; belief, opinion and expression; peaceful assembly; and freedom of association.
To date there have been more than 20 public presentations around the islands. Response has been very positive. Pastors believe this issue is bringing the church together.