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Statement Concerning United States Senate Consideration of Equality Act

Office of the General Overseer · Ministry

Date Mar 1, 2021

Language English

Author Office of the General Overseer

Pages 2

Year 2021

Date Mar 1, 2021

Language English

Author Office of the General Overseer

Pages 2

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Statement Concerning United States Senate Consideration of Equality Act
Office of the General Overseer
March 1, 2021

This past week, on February 25, 2021, the United States House of Representatives passed
the Equality Act. This bill amends federal civil rights laws and broadly prohibits
discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation. This bill will now
advance to the United States Senate for consideration.

The Equality Act, as currently written, should cause pause and concern for the Church.
Portions of the bill, if passed, could have significant ramifications for religious people and
faith communities. The rights of God’s people to act consistently with their biblical and
sincerely held beliefs are undermined by the language of the Act. Presently, there are no
religious exemptions or exceptions to the Act, causing concern that churches could be
required to adhere to the practices of the Act as “places of public accommodation,” which
is redefined in its language. Additionally, the Act has the potential to seek to impact our
practices and beliefs in relation to the sanctity of life, pastoral counseling, community care
and support, as well as the usage and rental of our facilities.

At times such as these, we are often unsure how the church should respond. Given the
significant consequences of this action, we feel compelled to call on our pastors and
ministers of the Church of God of Prophecy in the United States to prayerfully consider the
following actions:

First, we should pray. The passage of the Equality Act could have significant impact on our
society and institutions. It could have consequence on our local church ministries and how
they operate. Pray for revival throughout this land and an awakening of God’s people. Pray
for those considering this bill to uphold the precedent of religious freedom in our nation.
Secondly, reaffirm your resolve to God’s Word as our authority on such matters. As our
Statement of Faith affirms, “We believe that the Bible—both Old and New Testaments—is
the inspired Word of God. The Bible is God’s revelation of Himself and His will to
humankind, sufficient for instruction in salvation and daily Christian living. The Bible is the
Christian’s rule of faith and practice.”

Thirdly, remember that Scripture directs us to reflect the love and compassion of Christ to
all people. We must lovingly and faithfully share with them the truth of God’s transforming
Word with love, humility, compassion, and civility. As we discuss and debate this issue on
public and private forums, it is imperative that we maintain a Christlike love. Many in our
societies have been deceived and are struggling in lifestyles and choices that we believe
will lead to their eternal punishment. We must reflect the grace that we all have so richly
received as a gift of God.

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