COMMENTARY: Decriminalization of homosexuality – what it means for the Catholic Church in Dominica

Bishop of Roseau Gabriel Malzaire
Bishop of Roseau Gabriel Malzaire

In response to the claim of the advocacy group, Minority Rights Dominica (MiriDom) that the Catholic Church in Dominica is not reflecting the Vatican’s position on unjust discrimination towards homosexual persons, I wish to make it clear that the Catholic Church in Dominica adheres to the call of the Holy See in its statement to the 63rd session of the General Assembly of the United Nations on the Declaration of Human Rights, sexual orientation and gender identity, “to condemn all forms of violence against homosexual persons as well as to urge all States to take necessary measures to put an end to all criminal penalties against them.”

The Catholic Church maintains that free sexual acts between adult persons must not be treated as crimes to be punished by civil authorities. The Vatican specifically objected to the declaration’s use of the term sexual orientation and gender identity, which it said had no established meaning in international law. According to the Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, these terms imply that sexual identity is defined only by culture, and their use in the declaration is part of an attempt to equate same-sex unions with marriage and to give homosexual couples the chance to adopt or procreate children.”

This is where I think it is necessary to bring into focus the moral question. It is very important to note that the role of the Church in any society is primarily a moral one. She is not at liberty to change the divine mandate at will or according to human expediency. She has no authority to make a wrong into a right. She only serves as a guide to direct the faithful to what is morally correct and to discourage them from spiritually perilous decisions that can hinder their salvation. Homosexual “activity,” according to Holy Scriptures, is among many wrongs which, if not controlled, can lead to spiritual death. Among these are adultery, fornication, orgies, calumny, deep seated hatred, and the like (cf. Rom 13:13; Gal 5:16-21). These, along with homosexual “activity” will never be right, whether they are decriminalized by the State or not.

Part of the problem we face in this post- modern world is what both Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, refer to as a dictatorship of relativism. What it means is that there is no longer an objective truth that should guide human decisions; what is important for many persons is what “I” perceive to be good for “me”. We seem to recognize neither the natural law nor the divine law. This attitude no doubt directly influences our sense of morality.

The Church in its role as moral guide does not exist to condemn human persons but rather to condemn lifestyles and behaviours that are not in keeping with the divine law. Therefore, just as the Church has a responsibility to bring an adulterer to repentance she has the same responsibility towards those who indulge in homosexual “activity.”

Let me take this opportunity to share with you the Church’s position on same-sex unions. In the Christian order of things, it has everything to do with our understanding of the divinely established structure for perpetuation of the human species; a structure which is unchangeable. In the book of Genesis we read that God created human beings; in his image and likeness he created them male and female (Cf. Gen 2:37). Human beings therefore reflect the image of God when they are united in love, a love which comes out of their complementarity. God made man male and female to complement each other and together be an image of God.

In the Catholic understanding, there is a sacramental dimension of marriage. It simply means that the human participation in the union of a man and his wife reveals in some way the nature of God. Part of the vocation of married couples is to generate their own species, a direct fruit of the union. As Pope John Paul II puts it, “when a couple, man and woman, are joined in the sexual embrace, they are filled with sanctifying grace.” A couple united in marital embrace which is open to creativity, is the image of God the Creator. Therefore, for us who believe, same-sex unions can never be a sacrament and therefore can never be accepted by the Church as valid marriages. They may be licit, according to the State in which they are permitted by the civil law, but they can never be valid in the face of the divine law, as we understand it.

There is an attempt today to redefine marriage to say that it is a union between two persons. Marriage is between a man and a woman, not between just two persons. This is the only definition in the Christian order.

In conclusion, I wish to affirm that there is such a thing as an objective law, no matter which philosophy some people may hold. Some things are right and some things are wrong whether we like it or not. What is according to God’s law is right and what is contrary to God’s law is wrong; and all of us are called to live by God’s law if salvation is part of our agenda. Therefore, whether it regards fornication, adultery, homosexual activity, the whole gamut, we have to live by God’s law.

We live in an age in which people say, it is my body and I can do whatever I want with it. St. Paul reminds us that our bodies are temples of God’s Spirit and therefore deserve our utmost respect. They must not be treated just in any other way.

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181 Comments

  1. August 31, 2015

    There is merit in the Bishop’s statement. He does not condone homosexuality and is only saying that it should be decriminalized. He is saying that people should not do such things but these things should be sins not crimes.

    However here are two things you should understand.

    (1) This directive probably came from the Vatican. It is likely all the Bishops were told to give the same message.

    (2) Centuries ago The Roman Catholic Church did not hesitate to use the civil authorities to punish those who defied its authority and disobeyed its teachings. They turned ”heretics” over to the police to be dealt with severely by the courts. Homosexuality is so harmful (please see my comments on this page) I would expect the church to use every means at its disposal to rescue people from this lifestyle and minimise the damage. This includes the government and the laws of the land.

    Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill, Evangelist.

  2. August 31, 2015

    Who advocates for homosexuality :?:

    Apart from the gays themselves It seems to be people who have not looked at the large picture of things and have not taken into consideration all the facts involved.

    In spite of he fact that many of these people go to church and follow some kind of religion either they (a) do not know, or (b) they do not care that the Bible forbids homosexuality in Romans 1:26,27, 1 Corinthians 6:9,10 and other passages.

    For 2,000 years the Christian church has said homosexuality is a sin based upon its understanding of these scriptures.

    Nations with a Christian heritage have had laws prohibiting homosexuality for hundreds of years.

    It is not for religious reasons alone we oppose homosexuality. It is an unhealthy lifestyle.

    Homosexuals have more mental health issues than straight people. They suffer more from depression. They have a higher rate of alcoholism. With no family of their own they experience more loneliness in their senior years…

    • August 31, 2015

      Continuation …

      They have higher suicide rates. Statistics show they have shorter life spans.

      Homosexuals are more prone to violence. They are more frequently involved in crimes so gruesome the media will not publish the details OR they will not reveal that the criminals were homosexuals for the sake of political correctness.

      Less than 3% of the American population is homosexual. Yet this small minority has perpetrated 68% of
      all the serial killings in American in the past 20 years.

      A random sampling of 59 US serial killers after 1960 as collected and studied. Of these convicted murderers 39 were gay, 66%.

      The minority of the population that is homosexual accounts for about a third of child molesters, and two thirds of child rapes, and may be involved in up to half of all murders.

      This information has been taken from the internet.

      These reasons are enough to prevent people from becoming involved in this sin.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Evangelist.

  3. Jazzy
    May 24, 2013

    This response was very well put together. I am only now following up on all this gay rights debate in my country. If I was next to you Bishop, I would shake your hand for that response. I agree the act should be decriminalized but that does not make it moral.

    • August 31, 2015

      Homosexuality is spiritually destructive, physically harmful, and socially degrading.

      A government that cares for the wellbeing of its people should have laws against this vile behavior. You only need to look at the devastation caused by HIV alone. Men who have sex with other men are the largest people group affected by HIV/AIDS in Dominica making 70% of the cases. Then there is the other 30% who are women most of whom were infected by bi-sexual husbands or boyfriends.

      Since this is a preventable disease governments should be treating it as they would a national security threat.

      No, it should NOT be decriminalized.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Evangelist.

  4. Anonymous
    May 24, 2013

    PERFECT RESPONSE.

  5. Principle
    May 23, 2013

    If we fight against crimes in general then it would not be necessary to make a separate fight for crimes against homosexuality. Crimes should be forbidden in general. The church is getting mix up in something that makes no sense, we have become like lost sheep taking apples and calling it orange. There should be no crimes against children, women, men, boy, boy, girl or even animals. No tolerance for crime period. We do not have to stand up for homosexuality in the name of protecting against crimes. Let us just fight crime period.

    • Justce and Truth
      May 24, 2013

      Do you realize that the Catholic Church was addressed and challenged and they expected a response? This is It’s response. Therefore it is befitting that the Bishop responded.
      The Law includes homosexuals just as other residents. Therefore, I do not see why they had to include the Catholic Church in their business. I also do not know why they have to set themselves apart from other Dominicans. You do not see married people going about proclaiming I am married; likewise single people. They want to be recognized and to be so-called legally married. This is what it boils down to. People are fools to think and to agree that two people of the same sex should be married. It is so stupid. It makes no sense whatsoever. When they come up with their foolishness which is an abomination, they should just be ignored.

  6. saints and sinner
    May 23, 2013

    y wud dey even think of have tht thing here.its adam and eve not adam and steve

  7. Realist
    May 23, 2013

    The buttock was not designed for sexual activity as this can cause physical harm.

  8. Bratt Thomas
    May 22, 2013

    Oh please. Divine authority. Please!! Did he ever hear of the borgia pope? Please Moral authority? he makes it sound like one must be spiritual to be moral. Please bishop your words might fool some neophyte but any educated person can see very clearly that your argument has no warrants. You refer to genesis as your warrant but OUR CATHOLIC church tells us the story of adam and eve is not true. It simply explains that God created everything. So if the story is not true why are you using it to defend marriage? I mean why not use a fairy tale? Please bishop. Like tamar says ” get yo life”

  9. Solo
    May 22, 2013

    Well said Bishop! I conquer 200%. Thank you for reminding me of what it feels like to be proud to call myself Catholic and for showing us that the Church still adheres to morality inspite of worldly pressures to the contrary.

  10. xxx
    May 22, 2013

    what happened to my comment to Gary, he needs to read this

  11. May 22, 2013

    It saddens me to read these comments here….the Catholic church is so out of touch…we are all children of God!!..regardless of sexual orientation

    • MewMew
      May 23, 2013

      Mamzelle, who told you we are all children of God? By virtue of what? I’m guessing that it’s because you believe He created us all. Well, if that is so, then why did He DELIBERATELY create us male and female? What was His intention or purpose for doing so? So when male goes with male and female with female, how are we fulfilling His eternal purpose? Should we then still flatter ourselves that it’s ok in the eyes of the One who designed us? Does He care at all what we with the bodies and minds He designed? I’m puzzled.

      How would you feel if you bought your child a pair of expensive shoes and she took it to go hiking the Morne Trois Pitons trail? Or worse, how would you feel if she turned her bedroom into a literal junkyard? Would you just say, “Well, she can do what she wants; it’s still my child?” What would your reality be?

      I reckon you would still love that child, because she’s yours. But you would not approve of her actions. God loves everyone but some actions don’t meet His approval because they go against His revealed will, design, and purpose. That’s not hard to understand. That’s not being out of touch, is it?

    • May 23, 2013

      We are all CREATION of God, but we are not children. Only those who recieve and belive on the name of the LORD Jesus Christ are given the right to be called children of God (John 1:12). Believing means to adhere to God’s word/teachings through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

    • Anonymous
      May 23, 2013

      we need to adhere to the constitution that God has laid out for us in the bible.

      • August 8, 2014

        Others can do as they please and will answer to God and to their civil authorities whether they live in Dominica, Canada, or the U.S.A.

        What I am saying applies only to Christians – BORN AGAIN Christians – washed in the Blood of Christ, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit.

        We understand that a law is invalid if it is unconstitutional. Show me a law that is contrary to a clear statement of the National Constitution and I will say that law should be stricken from the books. The proper way to pursue this is to
        draw it to the attention of your government through the government representative nearest you. Follow this up and politely request an answer as to what is being done about it.

        However, most of the talk about a law being unconstitutional is a lot of crock. The law they want changed does not go against the Constitution. The law goes against their erroneous interpretation of the Constitution.

        For example our Constitution in Canada was written by God fearing men to provide equal rights for all. However, nothing in the Constitution was intended to provide “equal rights” for men to marry men or women to marry women. This nonsense was unheard of at that time. Proof that no statement in the Constitution was intended to provide “gay rights” is found in the fact that our government (knowing full well that any laws passed had to be constitutional) went ahead and passed laws making homosexual practices illegal.

        However, governments everywhere should know this. Evangelical Christians are increasing both in numbers and influence. We are fully aware that just as a law is not valid if it is unconstitutional neither is any statement in the Constitution valid if it is contrary to – or goes against – the clear instructions God has given us in the Holy Scriptures.

        We (Evangelical Christians) may not be able at this time to stop our government from decriminalizing same sex marriages as has been done in Canada and other nations. However, neither are these governments able to force us to
        respect, honor, or obey any statement or clause in the Constitution, or any law that is contrary to the clear command and instructions GOD has given us in the New Testament scriptures.

        At election time will be asking where our political candidates stand on the moral issues of the day and we WILL vote for these who best reflect our values. We know that it will take time so we will not be discouraged. Don’t expect us to cave in because it is not going to happen. Our numbers are increasing in some nations and strong (might I say militant?) leaders are rising up among us . Ultimately the forces of darkness will be overthrown!

        Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

    • Principle
      May 23, 2013

      We are all children of God but some have turn to their own way and have not chosen the way of God. Therefore exposing themselves to his wrath.

    • September 24, 2013

      Sorry. We are not all children of God.

      As sons and daughters of Adam and Eve we were born sinners separated from God.

      The Bible clearly states that we were “…by
      nature the children of wrath…” (Ephesians 2:3)

      This is why Jesus told Nicodemus a Jewish rabbi “…”Except a man be born again he cannot see the kingdom of God. (St. John 3:3)

      The Bible teaches that there are two classes of people in the world: the SAVED and the LOST. Jesus said “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which is lost.”

      Only those who believe in the lord Jesus Christ and personally receive Him as their Savior are children of God. The Bible says “He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become sons of God.” (St. John 1:11,12)

      We must believe ithat Christ died for our sins on the cross and rose again accoding to

      Those who habitually live sinful lives of lust and perversion are not children of God. When Christ comes into our hearts and lives He changes us. The Bible sdays “…old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (1 Corinthians 5:17)

      I invite you to visit my website http://www.livinghopeministries.ca and click onto SERMONS. Then click onto my sermon THE NEW BIRTH.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

  12. Natural Beauty
    May 22, 2013

    The Bishop has spoken. He was quite frank and fair about the issue of homosexuality and the crime against homosexuals. As a human being he condemned the violence against them. However as a man of God and a man of morality he gave logical reasoning against homosexuality. Hence, to those who believe that the body is the temple of God then refrain from doing what you want with it. To those whose agenda is resurrection, and salvation please follow the divine law that God gave us from the creation: the law that MAN and WOMAN must be together to populate the Earth. TAKE HEED! LISTEN!

  13. The Authorities
    May 22, 2013

    I couldn’t help but notice that this is the same response when the abolition of slavery was being introduced.

    The Church supported slavery and anti-abolitionists quoted the Bible to defend their cause.

    Wars were fought, and lives were lost. Nevertheless, slavery was eventually abolished and so will discrimination towards homosexual persons.

    • Checkhall
      May 22, 2013

      How can u try to equate slavery with a choice that men make to be with each other??
      It is not the same and don’t let anyone try to fool you.
      Do you know that Black gay men are refused entry in white bars? so it is not about choice but about color.
      You are born in your shin color and have free will to do what u want.

      • Bratt Thomas
        May 22, 2013

        Because that is what happened. The bible was used to defend slavery. because Jesus said ” slaves should be obedient to their master”. Did you not read that part?

  14. La voix
    May 22, 2013

    FET
    I understand your point of view but will disagree with you on this statement of love because it is recorded that when a man marries his wife they two shall become one flesh which s a great mystery therefore apart from the love embodied therein, there is also a spiritual dimension where the union through marriage produces children. Remember there are children of the flesh and children of promise which happens out of love iwhen married therefore love does not only mean what I can do or get when I can or the abuse of women for sexual pleasures. . Gods love is more meaningful that temporary pleasures.

    “There is nothing in that part of scripture which indicated an infatuation with the flesh of a woman or man. When I run after a woman because of the way her body looks, that has nothing to do with love, for the God kind of love is long term suffering, dand tolerance.”

  15. Francisco Telemaque
    May 22, 2013

    Gary, the first time I read a comment you made on DNO, I thought of you as an intelligent person, however the more I read you these days, I am finding out that you seem to be only a Simi-illiterate person, you are delusional, and confounded, and confused as can be!

    You are closer to ignorant than anything else, and more than confused than I thought. One of the ways one can find out if someone is truly educated is by reading and analyzing the comments they make, we look for intellectual consistency; you do not have that trait in you!

    I ignored you last week when you kept throwing some copied rhetoric someone threw at you, talking nonsense about my ego; again yesterday, you came back with the same nonsense, I told you in one post you have no idea what you are talking about when you speak of my ego, I gave you a hint lasts week, perhaps you missed it.

    I have no time to waste on small minded, people with less than an elementary education; you and I may occupy space on DNO, however, our educational background are completely different; if you notice more than ninety (90%) percent of my contributions are intellectual, I do not waste time on your sort of garbage, except when I wish to be sarcastic, or humorous.

    You seem to like the subject of homosexuality, if you are an homosexual, that is between you and whatever god you serve. However, I serve my God Jehovah through his Son Jesus Christ my Lord, therefore I cannot condone any homosexual acts, I cannot give you support in this respect.

    I will not sit at a table and eat with you because of your homosexual conduct, the same as I will not associate myself with a drug dealer, nor a habitual criminal.

    They say Birds of a feather flocked together, and a man is known by the company he keeps. If you are an homosexual and I associate with you that will become a stigma on me the same as it will be a stigma on you!

    Now all the rest of the garbage you are talking about son, and sun, educate yourself, I’ve got mine, I am capable of errors and I make plenty when I write, but surely I know I am beyond your kind, and you.

    Note that from here on I think very little of you, as a matter of fact I consider you a lesser specimen than I am.

    My father once told me ” never argue with a fool, because the fool will always win the argument; because the fool only understands what originates within their mind, and nothing else.”

    I recently read where someone said his grandmother taught him that one should never wrestle with a pig, I figured it out and discovered, to wrestle with a pig one has to go into the mud, and become a pig, and even at that the natural pig will continue wallow in the mud, while the human will have to find some means of cleaning themselves off!

    Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

    • May 23, 2013

      Mr Telemaque .

      Hello. You are rude and unprofessional and please stop writing such long paragraphs. We are board with your verbal diatram . If you want to write a book then do so and let us see how successful your book will be.

    • Gary
      May 23, 2013

      You know, sometimes I wonder if you know what self examination is. You mention about wrestling with a pig and getting in the mud with a pig and becoming a pig.Have you not seen what you wrote about me isn’t that describing your self going in mud which you pretend you don’t like, how funny.
      You are just showing once again your illusionary.

    • Gary
      May 23, 2013

      You know, sometimes I wonder if you know what self examination is. You mention about wrestling with a pig and getting in the mud with a pig and becoming a pig.Have you not seen what you wrote about me, isn’t that describing your self going in mud which you pretend you don’t like, how funny.You are just showing once again your illusionary mind

    • Justce and Truth
      May 24, 2013

      Francisco you make me laugh. That is all I can do when I read your comments. :lol:

  16. Honest
    May 22, 2013

    I am a born again christian and i believe that homosexual conduct is forbidden and a sin. However God told me to love everyone and treat them the way i would want to be treated.
    Therefore i think homosexuals should have the same rights i have. They must not however try to FORCE their opinions on me. We can disagree and love each other. I definitely will not say they will burn in hell. Everyone has to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling. I am trying my best to work out my own salvation

    • May 23, 2013

      Hello. I agree and I can’t understand why we want to judge others. Everybody is responsible for their conduct and they must answer when their time comes.

      • Justce and Truth
        May 24, 2013

        They must not force their conduct on us and expect us to condone their actions. They are too bold and aggressive.

    • Justce and Truth
      May 24, 2013

      The only right they have is to be treated humanely as each one of us. As people of the same sex, they do not have the right to get married. God ordained that marriage is between one man and one woman. Who is going to question God about what he ordained?
      As the Jewish Proverb:
      “Don’t question God. He will say, if you want answers come up here.” This ‘here’ will be your eternal judgment as you have lived.
      Those who practice this immorality are mocking God. God will not be mocked for those who do will get just what they deserve. They will pay for it, a dear price.

    • June 13, 2014

      Homosexuals have the same right I have and that is to marry somebody of the opposite gender.

      Does a man have a “right” to have sex with a child?

      Does a man have a “right” to commit incest?

      Does a man have a “right” to have more than one wife?

      Does a man have a “right” to commit bestiality?

      This “rights” argument if the most foolish thing have ever heard. It can be applied to anything. Naturally, here are things we do NOT have a right to do. That is what separates us from the jungle.

      A homosexual thinks he has a right to bugger another man. Where does this “right” come from? It feels good so he thinks this gives him the “right” to do it.

      People who commit every other kind of perversion now want equal “rights” along with homosexuals. But what they don’t realize is that God created us and He does have the right to forbid certain types of behavior on the penalty of eternal damnation.

      Romans 1:26,27, 1 Corinthians 6:9,10, 1 Timothy 1:9,10, Jude vs. 7.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

    • January 10, 2015

      And of course I expect you would extend equal rights to polygamists, paedophiles, those who indulge in incest, and those who practice bestiality.

      The problem with your thinking is that when it comes to sexual behavior God Himself has given us a model. It is simply this. The only sexual activity God approves is between a man and woman who are married to each other. They must be husband and wife. (Matthew 19:4-6) Sex outside of this kind of marriage is a sin the Bible calls fornication and it is strictly forbidden on penalty of eternal damnation. (1Corinthians 6:9,10) (Galatians 5:19-21)

      If you allow for even one other kind of sexual activity apart from this baseline (sex within a Biblical marriage) you must allow for ALL other types of sex. If you do not you are discriminating. You are being partial and bias. If you allow for one exception to the baseline or model God has given us you MUST allow for them all.

      Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. International Evangelist.

  17. May 22, 2013

    Bishop Malzaire: Thank you for interpreting for us Non-Catholics the statement from the Vatican and explaining how it will be applied by the Catholic Church in Dominica. I also appreciate your clear statements of what marriage is according to the Holy Scriptures and the fact that it cannot be re-defined. You have stated unmistakenly that fornication (including homosexuality), and adultery, are sins. I see no ambivilance in your declarations. What I take issue with is the directive from the Vatican that there should be no civil laws against homosexual acts and that such behaviour should not be prosecuted in the courts. Since some nations do presently have such laws this would amount to decriminalization if it is applied. Naturally the homosexual activists – no friends of the Catholic Church – are hoping your church will now join them in their lobbying to have the anti-buggery laws wiped from the books. Bishop, as you yourself well know, this will be the first step towards legalization. It will find expression first in giving what seems to be reasonable equal rights to homosexuals in lesser matters and will progess quickly to the legalization of same sex marriages and the right to adopt children. The Word of God forbids homosexual behaviour and this makes it sinful. God has appointed human government according to Romans 13:1-4. The laws of God as they pertain to marriage and homosexuality have always been so well understood by those countries with a Christian heritage they have been part of their national laws for hundreds of years. It is the responsibility of human government to represent the will of God on earth by upholding and enforcing the laws of God according to the scriptures I have referred to in Romans 13, especially verses 3-4. Dominica, along with other beautiful island nations in the Caribbean, have been blessed with governments that have supported the Biblical, traditional, church sanctioned model of marriage. Christians are called upon to be the salt of the earth (preventing corruption) and the light of the earth (dispelling darkness). This will only be the case when we bring our influence to bear upon society and the ruling authorities instead of bowing to them. Bishop, the statement from the Vatican troubles me because it is not the historical way the Catholic Church has always responded. This statement comes at a time when the Catholic Church is losing its influence. It no longer has the clout it once had and is now softening its stance to remain acceptable to the secular and increasingly ungodly governments of the world. At such a time we all need to meditate upon James 4:4 and I John 2:15. Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist. I invite you to visit my website http://www.livinghopeministries.ca and read the ARTICLE entitled `Things that Cannot Be Shaken.`

    • my view
      May 22, 2013

      Rev DH, you get it. The church needs to step away from involving themselves with state laws. Start practicing being neutral. Follow only God’s laws. Decriminalising Homosexuality – that is not your affair and should have nothing to do with the church and God’s laws. God’s word says ‘don’t practice it’. Your job Bishop is to make sure you and your members’ do not practice it. Leave the rest up to the State to enforce it’s laws against or for the practice and God to decide what he is going to do with his disobedient humans like he did with Sodom and Gomorrah. I was with the Bishop until he and the church decided to involve themselves with state affairs.

    • Justce and Truth
      May 24, 2013

      It appears to you that the Catholic Church is losing its clout. It isn’t. What has happened, the disobedient, stubborn and ignorant in faith decided to renounce their Catholic faith. They listened to people like you, not knowing what they had in the first place, that the Catholic Church has the fullness of faith. Satan has greatly influenced all of you and to think that the only Church Our Lord established on earth and approves of, having set his seal upon it, that it is losing. The day will come when you will see your error and of your words as imbedded in your heart and mind. Satan is no fool. He knows which Church Our Lord established on earth, which is The One True Church, The One which will prevail until the end of time as God ordained. This is why the cunning one has forced his way into that Church with his evil smoke and tempted the weak of spirit. If you are intelligent and spiritually enlightened you should know what I mean. This is why I remain steadfast and faithful in my Catholic Church, thanks be to God.
      When He said to Peter, ‘…Upon this Rock I will build my Church…” at no time did he mean all those thousands of pockets of churches. Our Lord left us peace and unity; not confusion, lack of peace and unity. Those who formed their churches and led others to join theirs, they have caused this.
      On the night before He was betrayed, He took bread and wine, blest them and said, “Take this, eat and drink all of you…Do this in memory of Me.” This is what is being done in the Catholic Churches throughout the world, in obedience to Our Lord’s commands and expectations, from the day this Church was established by St. Peter and will continue to do so until Judgment Day. Those who think adversely of the Catholic Church lack godly enlightenment and graces. God is with his Church. If it appears that it is losing, as it is stated in Romans, “There will be a remnant”. This is what St. Paul meant, those who will remain faithful to God, to His Catholic Church will obtain eternal salvation. Praise be to the Blessed Trinity.

  18. ME
    May 22, 2013

    If you believe in a higher power why is everyone concentrating on anything but the simplest references in the book you hold so dear.

    Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. Mk. 4.24

    According to the book it is God and God alone who is responsible for moral judgement. Leave the judgement for the people that wrote the book, reading it a couple of times does not make you God.
    Remember by judging another man based on your morals and outside of the ten commandments you have gone against god and are committing a higher sin.

    • May 22, 2013

      ME: This “judge not” scripture must be the misused and abused verse in the whole Bible! If we interpret it the way you do we would never be able to say anything is wrong. People could rape, murder, steal, and set houses on fire but we would not be able to say what they were doing was sinful or criminal! No, I am not God. I do not judge. God is the judge. He has given us His laws. A pastor, bishop, or evangelist is a person who has studied for years so he or she will understand the Bible well enough to explain it to others. Our job is not to judge. But we know from the scriptures that certain actions or types of behaviour is sinful. Our job is to tell people who do such things that they are breaking God’s law and will be punished if thy do not repent. For example: A policeman is not the judge. A lawyer is not the judge. But both these people know the law. They each have to tell people “this is a crime” or “that is a crime” and “if you are found guily you can be punished.” But it is the judge in court who decides if the individual is innocent or guilty and what if any the punishment will be. So it is God who will hand down the verdict of innocent or guilty and He who will pass the sentense if there is one. So ME please understand I am not playing judge. Bishop Malzaire is not playing judge. That is not our role. We are simply telling you what the law of God says and how it applies to the best of our ability, and doing what we can to see that people live by that law – because someday we will (myself included) face the judge! Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

      • Me
        May 23, 2013

        God has set out the punishments they are clear so why don’t we follow them for example:
        (Deuteronomy 22: 20-21)
        But if this thing be true, and the tokens of virginity be not found for the damsel: Then they shall bring out the damsel to the door of her father’s house, and the men of her city shall stone her with stones that she die: because she hath wrought folly in Israel, to play the whore in her father’s house: so shalt thou put evil away from among you.”

        Deuteronomy 22:28-29
        “If a man is caught in the act of raping a young woman who is not engaged, he must pay fifty pieces of silver to her father. Then he must marry the young woman because he violated her, and he will never be allowed to divorce her.”
        Seems a little light but I guess it’s the rules.

        My point is who is the one that decides which of gods rules we will live by. We certainly do not allow people to rape our children for a few coins and we don’t stone women who are not virgins when married (well at least in our society). Who is making the decisions to change the will of god and on what basis.

    • MewMew
      May 22, 2013

      “Me”, here are a few questions: What has God said concerning sexual activity between people of the same gender? Let’s take it further: What has God said between sexual activity between man and beast? Or between members of the same family? Judge not?

      • Me
        May 23, 2013

        Leviticus 20:15
        15 ” ‘If a man has sexual relations with an animal, he must be put to death, and you must kill the animal.
        Leviticus 20:15 (King James Version)
        15 And if a man lie with a beast, he shall surely be put to death: and ye shall slay the beast.
        Leviticus 18:6-18
        “None of you shall approach any one of his close relatives to uncover nakedness. I am the Lord. You shall not uncover the nakedness of your father, which is the nakedness of your mother; she is your mother, you shall not uncover her nakedness. You shall not uncover the nakedness of your father’s wife; it is your father’s nakedness. You shall not uncover the nakedness of your sister, your father’s daughter or your mother’s daughter, whether brought up in the family or in another home. You shall not uncover the nakedness of your son’s daughter or of your daughter’s daughter, for their nakedness is your own nakedness.

        Again when god had a problem with our actions he let us know. If you read the statement I made I referenced the ten commandments and gods will for us to follow them.

        As far as homosexuality Jesus never mentioned it directly it was Paul And Timothy. Jesus spoke out against sexual immorality. In your comments you make two assumptions 1. Everyone believes in you god and 2. if someone does believe in God they believe you should be the judge of crimes against the morality he set out. I guess you feel you have the right to “throw the first stone”.

  19. Anonymous
    May 22, 2013

    If you believe in a higher power why is everyone concentrating on anything but the simplest references in the book you hold so dear.

    Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. Mk. 4.24

    According to the book it is God and God alone who is responsible for moral judgement. Leave the judgement for the people that wrote the book, reading it a couple of times does not make you God.
    Remember by judging another man based on your morals and outside of the ten commandments you have gone against god and are committing a higher sin.

  20. ancient man
    May 22, 2013

    No Comment Just bear judgement

  21. Louis Bernard
    May 22, 2013

    It seems to me that the United Nations has now become the moral conscience of the world, and have now assumed the role of GOD.
    I would like the United Nations to tell me when was the third sex created , and by whom? As far as I recall God, according to the Bible created two sexes, male, and female one to be a companion unto the other.
    As a man (male) one has rights, as a woman (female) one also has rights.What is GAY? and how is it that this group demands that people be tolerant of their behavior, attitudes, their right to speak freely, yet they would crucify any and all who dare to have or express a different view.
    The sole purpose of sexual activity was for procreation, as such it was intended to be between a male and a female; however, mankind, the only life form that has sex for pleasure, seeks all sorts of devious ways to satisfy his selfish desires, and in this process turns to sodomy, which they rationalize as gay. No other life form engages in this behavior, as everything else in nature there is a time and a season, but mankind in his own great wisdom has determined that GOD’s handiwork is imperfect, but that his selfish desires, and immoral, unnatural acts are perfect.
    I have no issues with grown adults and their specific bedroom behavior, but when these behaviours are been forced upon the entire society, including innocent children, I have a very serious problem.
    I do not expect much from the Roman Catholic Church, in the way of guidance or direction, when it come to the morality of this matter given the numerous scandals that this church has been involved in with regards to child molestation, hence it would be natural for them to incorporate, or to surrender to these unnatural behavior.
    We all sin, and while we don’t accept sin as normal behavior, and as sinners we are brothers, it does not mean that we should encourage the behavior.
    I do not have to be violent with gay people, but I sure as hell don’t have to pamper to them and their disgusting public display of intolerance of my right not to accept their behavior.
    No wonder Christianity is in disarray, and under such vicious attacks, even by some who profess and call themselves christian

    • Francisco Telemaque
      May 22, 2013

      Bernard, have you noticed, in all the comments we read, no one express any concern about how God ordained it to be.

      One person commented God created man or people in his image and likeness, and went on to talk some nonsense about love.

      You see the love of God is not what these people believe it to be, because the love of God has nothing to do with the way a man feels about a woman, or in this case a mans feelings towards another man! For the love that the Bible speaks about has nothing to do with what is known to be human infatuations.

      When Jesus submitted himself to die on the cross for my sins, and the sins of those who would, or who ultimately accepted him as Lord and master in their life, he displayed an abundance of love for his people when he died on the cross.

      That is why it is written in John 3:16.

      “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life”.

      There is nothing in that part of scripture which indicated an infatuation with the flesh of a woman or man. When I run after a woman because of the way her body looks, that has nothing to do with love, for the God kind of love is long term suffering, and tolerance.

      One of the reasons we find so many people including myself divorced after a marriage of almost twenty-nine years, is because there was no love in our affair, so when the beauty of my body was gone, and perhaps hers too, we could no longer be with each other, however if the God kind of love was in it, we would be able to withstand, and tolerate each other until one of us die of natural causes.

      And my question to the United Nations, which is an organization dominated by the devil, and indeed the Roman Catholic Church is this; if God Jehovah who said he is the same yesterday, today and forever, hates homosexuality so much so; that thousands of years ago he destroyed thousands of homosexuals in one night living in the of Sodom and Gomorrah, two cities of which remnants were found in recent, proof that he destroyed people for their habit of homosexuality!

      Howe on earth do they believe the same God who cannot change, does not change, will have any tolerance for the same sin in the twenty-first century?

      Love and homosexuality and a mans feelings for a woman has nothing to do with God love!

      Just because a majority of people like something does not make it right, I mean as many people like to drink rum, and get drunken, does not make drinking alcohol the appropriate thing to do, because we know from a scientific fact that alcohol destroys the body and life itself.

      Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

      • Gary
        May 22, 2013

        More verbal diarrhea again.But that’s OK you are just being who you are.You quoted John 3:16. Here is what you need to know.For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Sun, not son.The Sun is the light of the world,not the son if that Sun does come up we all perish period,we are dependent on that Sun it is our life savior on Earth, yes it is the center of the universe all things go around it providing everlasting life
        our wonderful Sun.We should be always be thankful for the Sun when it raises in the Morning.It also
        should be noted that it always comes after dankness,the night.

      • May 23, 2013

        Gary, I cannot believe that there is an individual on this blog, who actually agrees with this piece of garbage which you wrote here. Or are you able to give yourself thumbs up–because I can’t.

        “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have Eternal Life.” John3: 16

        You say that this verse talks about the “Sun?”

        You mean to tell me that you do not know that when God said “let there be Light” at Genesis 1:3, He was not talking about the sun, moon and stars–but He had called for the conception and reproduction of His own nature Love–the Life He would give to His creation through Jesus Christ?

        You mean to tell e that you do not know that God created physical light the sun, the moon and the stars on the forth day of His creation–not on the first day?

        While you think you are being amart to say that a person’s message is verbal diarrhea, yours is so out of the world, that no one knows what it is.

        I could corner you deeper into the wall but I will leave you at this–you are doing a good job destroying your integrity. I always knew that you were a great fool, but now I know that you are the “Lord of fools” I will not forget that!

      • Frank McMullan
        May 28, 2013

        There are other ways of understanding supposed biblical prohibitions against homosexuality. The sin of Sodom, for instance, was not homosexuality but inhospitality towards visiting strangers, something totally contrary to the culture of the time. There is a world of difference between homosexuality and the prospective homosexual rape of Sodom – let alone the rape of Lot’s daughters as his proposed compromise solution. It’s interesting you perceive Sodom and Gommorah as having thousands of homosexuals being destroyed. I’m also intrigued by your certainty as to their sexual orientation since homosexuality was not understood as such in those times. I imagine them as small towns or villages of maybe a few hundred people of varied sexuality, just like everywhere else on the planet. Nevertheless, even granting you all your assumptions, their sin still wasn’t consensual sexual activity, but rape. I have no problem with the condemnation of rape, homosexual or otherwise. I do have an enormous problem with the cruel and degrading treatment of homosexuals as a direct result of misinterpretation of such biblical passages. Some truly terrible things have been done by my beloved Catholic Church in the name of Christianity, not least this.

    • Gary
      May 22, 2013

      Why are you so ignorant.You concept of what Gay rights are is misconstrued.The notion that you have about Gay people asking for tolerance regarding their behavior is not what Gay people are asking and demanding,that is the last thing they want.What they are saying is that they should not be denied certain things simply because they are Gay, example the right to equal employment,and housing,and not be assaulted or violated simple because they are Gay,these are just some of the things they are asking for, they are not asking for privileges nor they asking that you accept their lifestyle.Not long ago Women could not vote,is it right to deny someone from voting simple because they are a sex that being a woman,it is the same principle regarding Gay people.

      Why would you hate or deny a person certain basic human things simply because that person has a different sexual orientation than you, making that person so fearful that they have to sometimes hide fearing being discriminated.Is that taking away your right to what you believe the Bible tells you or what you believe, of course not.The Bishop has outlined The Church policy regarding the treatment of Gay People saying that free sexual acts between adult persons must not be treated as crimes to be punished by civil authorities.Tell me where this is a vicious attack on Christianity.This is not asking you to accept their behavior, then why are you so arrogant.

      The issue regarding Gay marriage.If Two adults of the same sex love each other and decide to get married and ask that their marriage be recognized
      as legal why should the state deny them that right saying it was not God ordained or against God’s word.Tell me also what this has to do with the destruction of the institution of marriage or procreation absolutely nothing.Your mention about a third sex,very foolish and cynical.Have you heard of the term Hermaphrodite,well God also created them also and by the way where did Cain get a wife after being chased out of Garden.

      • Justce and Truth
        May 24, 2013

        Gary, what certain things? To get married? You are joking. Two men get married? Oh my! You do not need any further explanation. If you are intelligent you will know that it is absurd, stupidity in itself that people of the same sex should get married.

    • Well Said
      May 22, 2013

      Well said! Hats off to you!

  22. Peeping Tom
    May 22, 2013

    So, some noise makers call on the Church to speak and the Bishop speaks. I do not believe that many will support what he said above. He spoke not only against persecution of homosexuals but he shrewdly inserted an admonishing finger against persons who denigrate, vilify, and spread malicious statements about others.

    I found the Bishop’s article thought-provoking, clear, and informative. I enjoyed reading it. I am happy to read that although the Catholic Church does not support homosexuality, it speaks out against criminalizing consensual acts among adults and the violence and hatred meted out to persons who engage in these acts. This distinction between opposing the act and condemning the persecution against those who choose to engage in it is important and must be emphasized. The Catholic Church, through the words of the Bishop, is clearly saying “I can hate what you do or say but I will not stand in your way if you choose to do it or say it.” I appreciate this stance. It is mature, democratic, and civilised.

    Of course, I cannot accept the philosophy of an absolute objective truth. Many of the colonisers from the West subjugated and brutalised indigenous groups because the former believed that their understanding of creation and “God”, the “truth” to which they adhered, was superior to that of the natives.

    A great piece, all the same.

    • Justce and Truth
      May 24, 2013

      We cannot be here and there – two ways. It is one way. We either agree or disagree.
      Does Dominica have such a Law? When last were homosexuals punished and imprisoned for their immoralities? They are just blowing a lot of hot steam and want the world to proclaim them. God did not ordain it. If God wanted two people of the same sex to enter into a relationship and get married, He would have created one sex. Therefore, utilize your common sense if you have any. They must leave the Catholic Church out of their abomination and comess, influenced by Satan.

  23. La voix
    May 22, 2013

    I will add my thoughts more in detail when appropriate but for now what must be understood is the extent of moral laws, Devine laws and human desires.
    If we think of the continuation of the human specie then everyone on the planet should not support homosexuality but seeing that the flesh is as grass and human beings are fallible then they we should not support homosexuality but if someone practices this act they should not be treated as a criminal but the society should have mechanisms in place to ensure that they return towards the intended purpose they ought to be. The issue is not criminalizing or not because we know that if everyone has to marry their own kind that will be the end of the human specie therefore there must be in place a system that will deter individuals from wanting to bring an end to the human specie. If the powerful lobby has money they can achieve anything including same sex marriage, but that does not make it right because we were made to procreate and give life to make the world more interesting. Homosexuality is a selfish act of individuals looking to satisfy their own desires at the expense of society on a whole and while we need to be tolerant of those who want to practice it we should not encourage its practice since it goes contrary to Devine laws.

  24. Still a Dominican
    May 22, 2013

    If the bible and more specifically Genesis is the basis of the bishop’s claim that homosexuality and same-sex unions are wrong, then it is sad. The old testament is filled with a host of laws which are not followed by the majority of Christians today, such as death for adultery, death for lying about virginity, death for apostasy, and death for breaking the Sabbath. Then we are expected to believe that homosexuality is very different.

    Furthermore it has been established that the earth is about 4.5 billion years old and the species of the world have progressed through evolution, thus Genesis has proven to be a well fabricated story. A story albeit.

    On the matter of natural law, it was previously believed that mankind was the only species who engaged in “unnatural” homosexual activity. This is not true. Many animals in the animal kingdom engage in homosexual activity. Is it all unnatural? It will certainly not lead to the perpetuation of the species but contrary to natural law is an entirely different matter.

    I am a heterosexual, atheist Dominican male. I am afforded legal and societal comfort for choosing a partner in the act of marriage. It is unfair for homosexual couples to be refused that same comfort on unfounded grounds.

    It is understood that the majority of my country men are culturally Christian and Catholic by extension but the day will come when we can overcome our myopic beliefs and treat all people with equality.

    • MewMew
      May 22, 2013

      My friend, putting aside all Bible talk, why on earth did we evolve into MALE and FEMALE? What was the purpose and function of this phenomenon? Why didn’t we humans all evolve with penises or all with vaginas? Please explain.
      Ii submit to you that everything that exhibits design has a designer and, by extension, a specific purpose. Homosexual activity is NOT according to NATURAL DESIGN. It CANNOT BE! You don’t have to be a Christian to come to that conclusion.

      • Still a Dominican
        May 23, 2013

        Like stated previously homosexuality will certainly not lead to the perpetuation of the species but that does not make it unnatural by any means. Over time the best traits will be selected as a result of natural selection, this means that homosexuality is unlikely to be genetic. The causes of homosexuality are still debated, but one thing we could be sure of is that it is not a result of demons which can be solved with a few prayers or an exorcism.

  25. ok
    May 22, 2013

    thanks much for the clarification of many points. the article is well written and easy to understand. the supporting scripture verses helped a lot. thanks bishop.

  26. Deleoncourt
    May 22, 2013

    I mean he can believe whatever he wants. That is his right but where I differ is at the end where he goes (objective law) lol how is he being objective? He is coming from a purely bias position. Thank god that he made me an atheist so I don’t have to believe this malarkey

    • FC
      May 22, 2013

      Thank God? and ur an athiest?

    • Too Hard Too Long
      May 22, 2013

      “Thank god that he made me an atheist”? Are you serious?either you believe in god or you don’t.

  27. C
    May 22, 2013

    Very happy ot hear that this man respects the fact there are two laws, that of the state and that of religion and that what we need to remember is that these are definitely very separate things. In my eyes, religion is a very personal choice, as he says ‘to live by God’s law if salvation is part of our agenda’ and it is very clear that some people ‘pick and chose’ the moral advice laid forward by the bible. To go out of your way to criticise one of the many sins when you pick and chose is to be utterly hipocritical.

    Of course I understand the divine laws will affect his opinion on homosexuality and I have no issue with that but this is a very well said, thoughtful and inclusive response from the church. If only the rest of the nation could be so humble and understanding of the differences in our society today.

  28. Anonymous
    May 22, 2013

    This article could not have been written better.

  29. Justice and Truth
    May 22, 2013

    It was with a joyful, full and satisfied heart that I read Bishop Malzaire’s excellent words. I could not have said it better. I have absolutely nothing to add to them. His words, on behalf of the Catholic Church are to the point.
    Amen to that Bishop and God bless you. He is no doubt pleased with you.
    We genuine Catholic Christians are behind you one hundred per cent. We love our Church too, established by Our Lord Jesus Christ. We will defend It and Its religious teachings. May God continue to give us the boldness, courage and the strength to do so. Our salvation depends on it. Thanks be to God!

  30. Legin
    May 22, 2013

    Criminalize adultery, fornication, orgies, calumny, deep seated hatred, and the like. Yeah !!

  31. May 22, 2013

    SO MUCH HATRED!!! These articles bring out the “BEST” in the ‘religious’ doesn’t it….condemning others to hell….bullying…You all get riled up about matters like this after reading this Bible? It seems it teaches to love everyone…EXCEPT if they’re different? And if they are…To HELL they go? Sounds like a GOOD book

    • MewMew
      May 22, 2013

      Rubbish. I read the article and NOTHING in there sounds like bullying! Say you don’t agree; fine! But bullying? Not a strand.
      That’s the problem with same-sex advocates: too many of them are prepared to vilify those who don’t share their views.
      I don’t always support the bishop because I don’t share his faith, but it would be unfair to him to label his article as HATRED!! Come on! You have no idea what hatred sounds like.

  32. May 22, 2013

    Look at all this HATRED! I’m pretty sure the entire bible has been written in comments on all the gay articles posted….I don’t believe in your God so I don’t care how much bible you quote to me…I see homosexuals for who they are…humans…just like me..tho different in their likes and sexual desire. I differ with a lot of people’s views but a great mind, Aristotle said “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it” and that’s how I live in peace with those who are different.…I don’t feel I have any place to say what they can do in their bedrooms…I’ll just stay out of theirs…I don’t know why they want to get married in a catholic church (but then again I don’t believe)

  33. wells
    May 22, 2013

    Babylon ther great the mother of harlot and the abomination of the earth

  34. Pondera
    May 21, 2013

    An excellent article. Very reasoned and reasonable. Objective and of sound biblical position. This is the brilliance of a man who thought it necessary to be trained to lead people spiritually. Too many way side, “don’t know a thing” guys are out there being church leaders.

  35. Francisco Telemaque
    May 21, 2013

    Admin, my last two submissions for whatever reason was kicked out; there is absolutely no way anyone can convinced me know that they are automatically omitted, or systematically deleted because of the length of words.

    You once informed me that DNO does not censor, gut I have proved otherwise. I as I noted one should not be censored unless they are defaming people, or their comments are loaded with profanities.

    Speaking of defamation of character, there are two people who defamed me right on this site, stating that I am plagiarizing.

    Such is an serious accusations, yet such comment get posted, I would never make such outrageous comments about anyone and expect to see such comments posted.

    One should never be scared of the truth, no matter in what form the author expresses themselves. And I do believe everyone whom something was directed to, should have a right to respond. I am not trying to dictate to you what you should print on your site, however; fairness is likely the key to success in any business!

    I mean if you are if you are allowing the subject of homosexuality on your site, then the opinions of people like me on the subject should be fair game in responding to comments of others when they are directed to me. In this case someone ask me why I visit Palm Spring so often; and the person asks that question because he/she is aware that lots of homosexuals hangs out there, and may entertain the idea that I am homosexual, and that is why I visits there.

    So, I thing I should also have the opportunity to let this person know that I am a womanizer, and I go there to look for women, gamble, and eat lots of Buffalo Beef.

    And by the way drink up some Beer, Wine, Whiskey, and me Rum, okay; and not the filth which may be consuming the persons mind.

    To each his own, and his god, whichever they serve; however, the God that I serve, dislikes homosexuality, an I am not prepared to get involved in that.

    Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

    • Gary
      May 23, 2013

      Wow,The ego is a fascinating monster.

  36. Dominican
    May 21, 2013

    Excellent article. It’s good to see a religious leader whose views are not myopic. Homosexuality may be a sin, but it is no different from other sins. Leave the judging for God. Let’s just live and try to be good human beings helping and caring for each other rather than hating and hurting. Love, don’t hurt.

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      You are wrong here that it is no different than other sins. Yes! A sin is a sin but there are some lesser and greater sin. Some will warrant eternal damnation and others will not. Therefore, do not compare homosexuality sin with (some) others. This is one is a great – grievous sin, relationships between two people of the same sex. If this is not a great sin, a mortal sin, what is? Let us stick solely to the issue of this article.

    • Francisco Telemaque
      May 22, 2013

      It is different to other sins: That is why God dealt so different with the people of Sodom and Gomorrah!

      The proof is in the findings of both destroyed cities of so long ago recently. Now ask yourself, in the history of the world, how many cities do you recall god almighty destroyed for any other sin bedsides homosexuality?

      I am sure you will not find another one; though there is another places on this earth, where it is said in the Bible will never be inhabited.

      The last time a group of people decided to camp out and spend the night, they had to run and escape with their life. Let me take the time out to say when you find people writing their opinions under Rev. that and that, be reminded that the Bible teaches that the devil himself know the scriptures, that is why he attempted to use it to tempt Jesus

      The devil has his ministers even in the modern church, and if we are not careful we all can be disappointed. That is why the Bible teaches in 2 Timothy: 15 “Study to shew thyself (yourself) approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

      What God convey in 2 Timothy: 15 is simply this, people should study the word of God for themselves, so that when they read scriptures that so called reverends, and bishops, priest, and popes write, they can interpret the word of God for themselves, and not be taken in by the words of the ministers of Satan.

      I do not know why emphatically why God hate homosexuality more than any other sin but, I know he destroyed those two cities because of that.

      Something to think about!

      Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

    • Seriously though
      May 22, 2013

      Why are you asking that judgement be left for God in a matter that He has already denounced as abomination. This scripture regarding judgement is so misinterpreted and misappropriated it’s not funny.

  37. JUDGE DREDD
    May 21, 2013

    as he mentioned about the general assembly in the united nation, i still have an issue with the church when moussolini murdered thousands of ethopians and the church gave mousolinni the blessing to go fight men with bow and arrows where his soldiers had guns…

    • wells
      May 22, 2013

      So dam true

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      Address this elsewhere.

  38. Student
    May 21, 2013

    “God created human beings; in his image and likeness he created them male and female (Cf. Gen 2:37). Human beings therefore reflect the image of God when they are united in love, a love which comes out of their complementarity. God made man male and female to complement each other and together be an image of God.”

    Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!!

    “human participation in the union of a man and his wife reveals in some way the nature of God. Part of the vocation of married couples is to generate their own species, a direct fruit of the union.”

    Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!!

    “A couple united in marital embrace which is open to creativity, is the image of God the Creator. Therefore, for us who believe, same-sex unions can never be a sacrament and therefore can never be accepted by the Church as valid marriages.”

    Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!!

    “Therefore, whether it regards fornication, adultery, homosexual activity, the whole gamut, we have to live by God’s law.

    Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!!

    “We live in an age in which people say, it is my body and I can do whatever I want with it. St. Paul reminds us that our bodies are temples of God’s Spirit and therefore deserve our utmost respect. They must not be treated just in any other way.”

    Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!! Amen!!!

    Dear God, please bless our nation and keep us ever obedient to your word. Amen

    • Gary
      May 22, 2013

      Why don’t you learn to read your so called Bible properly. it seems you are not a good student not paying attention to what you read. Please read Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” Did you not see the word “our image” The so called God did not create man in his image singular but our image.You need to ask your self what is this about our image, there is a difference my image and our image.Why are you saying God created man in his image.

      What about Gen 3:22 Then the LORD God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil.” here you have the word Us. God did not say man has become like him instead he says us, who is us, and way his God sounds so frightened that man is able to know good and evil
      why didn’t he want man to know good and evil what is God hiding from man. How would you fell living today and not having the ability to know good and evil wouldn’t that be a travesty by God, making man in his image and likeness but not allowing man to know good and evil. Why is it that you assume that the union of a man and his wife reveals in some way the nature of God.Why would you believe that a marriage or union between a Man and Woman is the pinnacle nature of God.The nature of God cannot be just be boiled down to a marriage between Man and Woman,the nature of God is far more complex.This man made invention called religion,with it’s deception and concealment is at the root at hoodwinking the human race.

      Your so called prayer at the bottom of your comment asking God to bless our Nation and asking to be obedient to God’s word is somewhat simplistic and cliche,worst of all the word obedient very scary.There is another word you forgot fearful.Have you not noticed that the God in the Bible request two things from Man to be obedient to him and fearful of him.These two request sound much like the nature of some entity.The Divine principle which governs this universe rewards us upon our recognition of it’s principles or Laws and not words.When we recognize that there is a power greater than us which bestows benefits to us simply by understanding how it works.This can be applied to every aspects

    • Gary
      May 22, 2013

      Why don’t you learn to read your so called Bible properly. it seems you are not a good student not paying attention to what you read. Please read Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” Did you not see the word “our image” The so called God did not create man in his image singular but our image.You need to ask your self what is this about our image, there is a difference between my image and our image.Why are you saying God created man in his image.

      What about Gen 3:22 Then the LORD God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil.” here you have the word Us. God did not say man has become like him instead he says us, who is us, and way his God sounds so frightened that man is able to know good and evil
      why didn’t he want man to know good and evil what is God hiding from man. How would you fell living today and not having the ability to know good and evil wouldn’t that be a travesty by God, making man in his image and likeness but not allowing man to know good and evil. Why is it that you assume that the union of a man and his wife reveals in some way the nature of God.Why would you believe that a marriage or union between a Man and Woman is the pinnacle nature of God.The nature of God cannot be just be boiled down to a marriage between Man and Woman,the nature of God is far more complex.This man made invention called religion,with it’s deception and concealment is at the root at hoodwinking the human race.

      Your so called prayer at the bottom of your comment asking God to bless our Nation and asking to be obedient to God’s word is somewhat simplistic and cliche,worst of all the word obedient very scary.There is another word you forgot fearful.Have you not noticed that the God in the Bible request two things from Man to be obedient to him and fearful of him.These two request sound much like the nature of some entity.The Divine principle which governs this universe rewards us upon our recognition of it’s principles or Laws and not words.When we recognize that there is a power greater than us which bestows benefits to us simply by understanding how it works.That power works on principle it is consistent and does not wavier or pass judgement,it’s laws does not favor anyone based on religious beliefs adopted from holy Books such as the Koran and the Bible.

      PS sorry for my second posting.First post was posted without completion hitting the post comment accidentally.

      • xxx
        May 22, 2013

        Gary, First the Bible is not a so called Bible,to answer your ? in our own image, refers to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. The three in one.
        You yourself have a body, a spirit, and a soul. Is it not the same you. Three in one.
        Again when the word of God says man has become us He is refering to the three in one. In Genesis 2:18, there was one thing that God saw was not good, He said it is not good for man to be alone, therefore He made a help meet for Adam. Adam called this help meet woman. So this was God first and only marriage, between a man and a woman.
        You said that obedient is very scary. Obedient is what God requires, not words. God said in His word that heaven and earth shall pass away but His words shall not pass away. Matthew 24:25. Yes God does want us to be fearful of Him, to know that He is God. He also said in Matthew 10:28 Fear not the one who can destroy the body and not the soul, but to fear the one who can destroy both body and soul in hell.
        Yes there is a power greater than us, but not principles & laws, this sound like the new age. You said that laws does not favor anyone based on religious beliefs. God is not about religion. He is about Faith in Him that He is the only God and the He sent His son who from the beginning of time to come and die for our sins, so that what we lost from Adam we can have it again through the new Adam, His son Jesus.

        The prayer for Dominica is a good prayer we do need God to bless our land. It’s not a so called prayer. Thank God for the many people who are praying for Dominica, may they continue. That is the reason you are safe and protected. May God draw the people closer to him, including you Gary.

  39. xxx
    May 21, 2013

    Amen. Amen. Amen. God bless you for standing up for righteousness.

  40. May 21, 2013

    well said god did not say man and man

  41. bernice
    May 21, 2013

    god created adam and eve and not adam and steve

    • JoJo
      May 21, 2013

      Can’t you think of something more original? Honestly!

      • May 21, 2013

        i was thinking the same thing

      • Student
        May 21, 2013

        Sorry if you feel offended but I am going to add that God created Adam and Eve not Adama and Eve.

        And no we cannot be more original we are too busy being straight-forward. Got it?

      • Justice and Truth
        May 22, 2013

        I had to laugh at your comment. :lol: Sure, we have heard it many times and it will continue to be repeated many times, no doubted resounded throughout the world in different languages by those who oppose this abomination.
        So much has been said by all of us on this topic that any more could be a repetition. This is the best Bernice could do and rightfully so. I, too echo the words. Give her a break. Why should Bernice be given thumbs down? She is correct. God bless her for standing up for the truth.

  42. bernice
    May 21, 2013

    all of u who believe that homosexual is not a sin,will burn in hell.

    • Aquinas
      May 21, 2013

      You are guilty of a grievous and mortal sin when you usurp the power of the Almighty to judge who will and who will not be saved. Your presumption is a sin of pride and and act of murder in your heart. You also are guilty of diminishing God’s mercy and benevolence. For your own sake… repent and be among the Christian community – love your brethren don’t hate!

      • plawey
        May 21, 2013

        So love your brethren even if he gay and he will indeed end up like the children of SODOM burn it is wrong for the two opposite sex to engage in sexual activity LET GOD BE TRUE AND EVERY MAN A LIAR

      • Justice and Truth
        May 22, 2013

        They do stand a chance of going to Hell, those who practice it, legislate it, approve it and applaud it. We must know the truth and at all times stand up for the truth with no exception. Those who exalt this abomination and die with it on their soul, think where their soul will end up. It is giving credence to sin and encouraging it. Consider how many people they could cause to sin and go to Hell. Do you think God is amused or will be amused when the perpetrators face him for their eternal judgment? We are obligated to inform them about the repercussion of their feelings, words and actions as they project. In so doing, we will save our souls and many others. If we fail to do it, woe to us.

      • MewMew
        May 23, 2013

        This is NOT about hatred. Nobody is saying to HATE anybody. Rather, it is about whether an action or lifestyle is morally correct or not. Don’t twist the issue. Let me illustrate: If I say that beating one’s spouse is wrong, am I preaching HATRED against those who beat their spouses?

    • touché
      May 21, 2013

      where will you burn?keep your foolish comment

      • Aquinas
        May 21, 2013

        I trust God’s love and care… being a fool for Christ is, I believe preferable, to hating and hating and hating. Try loving your neighbor rather than cursing them. Try finding Christ in all persons, otherwise God may not be found in you. Bless your heart.

      • Justice and Truth
        May 22, 2013

        You mean you do not know or you are pretending not to know? In Hell! Where else? :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

  43. Procreator
    May 21, 2013

    I concur. The statement above is unequivocally clear; vivid. Excellently articulated! No stone unturned in that regard. Good work Bishop.

  44. Evolved
    May 21, 2013

    The Bishop.

    He needs to speak out on what is wrong regardless of the issue. He is jumping on a matter that has no bearing – at this time – on his flock. He needs to deal with the real issues – political and social that have a bearing on the salvation of his people.

    Make no mistake – judge not the salvation of another since you do not know the outcome of yours.

    The Bishop needs to encourage his flock to examine their conscience and reflect on how they live (daily) the simple but powerful teachings of our Lord and Savior. It is the adherence of those simple teachings (in my view) that will determine the inheritance of salvation.

    Oh and one last thing Bishop of Roseau, well maybe two:

    Speak on the issue of drugs and its impact in society – or would you rather not since it might be too close to home

    Hurry up and renovate the Cathedral.

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      Silly! :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

    • Anonymous
      May 22, 2013

      Thats what you call a FOOL

    • Evolved
      May 22, 2013

      That is not what I wrote – u either post what I wrote in its entirety or you discard it – dont edit my comments – if you do that they are no longer mine but yours

  45. Doc. love
    May 21, 2013

    I am a Catholic, I am honoured to hear my Bishop clear the air with no fear or favour, however,my Bishop should not cherry pick. A lawyer, in his opinion, felt that dromes should be used to get rid of the patriots. Subsequenty, a Catholic Priest, at a funeral ceremony talked about the use of spritual dromes on the patriots.In my opinion, this statement was not only distasteful but crary,I am yet to hear my Bishop comments of the matter.Dominicans are aware of the many alleged baggage of curruption which are at the feet of the Prime Minister, no comments from the Bishop. Please Bishop,speak to the Prime Minister, Dominicans would like to know wether the allegations are facts or fiction.

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      The Church is involved in the spirituality of souls, to warn and advise if we do not conform to the Most Holy Will of Our Almighty Father we will not be saved. The business of what occurs in politics, is not Its business; not that of the Bishop and Priests. If, however, there is a breach of human rights and dignity, this is where the Church will comment.
      Some of you are not genuine Catholics. You act as if you are traitors, speaking against your own Church and criticizing the priests.
      You publicly accuse the PM about corruption. You tarnish his good name. If you are a Catholic Christian you should refrain from this. You should not broadcast what you cannot prove for you stand a good chance of being sued. Speak the truth; not speculation and based on what others stated.
      God is not pleased with you. You must repent of bearing false witness – The Eighth Commandment of God. It is a grievous sin to violate the Commandment of God. Surely, as a Catholic you should know that.

    • Peeping Tom
      May 22, 2013

      Bishop Malzaire: “Homosexual “activity,” according to Holy Scriptures, is among many wrongs which, if not controlled, can lead to spiritual death. Among these are adultery, fornication, orgies, calumny, deep seated hatred, and the like (cf. Rom 13:13; Gal 5:16-21)”.

      I think you missed the last few words, Doc. love! Have a look.

      • Gary
        May 22, 2013

        Peeping Tom

        Do know what is the cause of spiritual death, Religion.It has put a blind fold over the human race not allowing the human race to know their nature and so empowering them.Look around you and see the root cause for all the wars in this world.

        If people were a little more enlightened,religion
        would perish.Religion has caused more harm than any other idea since the beginning of time.Here is something with some humor just for you.The Bible contains six admonishments to homosexuals and 362 admonishments to heterosexuals. That doesn’t mean that God doesn’t love heterosexuals. It’s just that they need more supervision.

  46. Freethinker
    May 21, 2013

    This entire article is based on the idea that there is a “divine law” out there. Well, some of us do not believe in any gods or religions and instead choose to live our lives based on what we have facts and evidence to support. And so why should what the Vatican says about divine law unless the Vatican can prove such a law exists?

    It is the religious in Dominica who need to wake up. There is a growing number of skeptics and unbelievers in the island and across the Caribbean–and we are just as much Caribbean as anyone else. We want the islands to be governed based on reason and evidence, not claims that must be taken only on faith, like this thing about divine law. Show me the law, and then we can talk.

    And Bishop? I respect that you responded to the group’s letter–I, like many of the commenters, have not heard of Miridom before–and know both from this and from seeing your work in the past that you are not a fanatical man. If you would like to discuss these things with an unbeliever, as in an online discussion, I–or any of my skeptical friends–would no doubt be happy to join in.

    Unbelievers and skeptics of Dominica: don’t let the religious trample over you. Speak up, and speak out.

    • Nac Vibes
      May 21, 2013

      Sure you are a free thinker, the Father gave you that privilege, because he loves you.

      • Justice and Truth
        May 22, 2013

        To either save himself or condemn himself, whichever path he chooses. Our Lord Jesus Christ said, “By your words you will be acquitted and by your words you will be condemned.”
        God loves us so much that He gave us that free mind and will to come to him or not. He will n ot touch them. After all, He gave us a precious life and that is love in itself.
        John 3:16 – For God so loved the world that He gave His Only Son that, whoever believes in him might not perish but obtain eternal life.

    • Well! Well!
      May 21, 2013

      And freethinker who gave you this life to live? You apparently evolved? It’s a matter of choice to be a skeptic but even the skeptic WILL BOW. Open your eyes, look all around you. What further evidence do you require. It is not the religious that will trample over you but the WORD that became flesh and dwelt among men.

      • Justice and Truth
        May 22, 2013

        The fool say in his heart there is no God.

    • maindesk
      May 21, 2013

      The Bishop is doing what he is supposed to do. Police are required to catch drug dealers whether or not some of them are drug dealers. The bishop is required to moralise whether or not there are rogue priests in the church. My question is where is the law of God that deals with homosexuals? The ten commandments says nothing about that. Jesus said nothing. The scripture says there are seven things the Lord hates but does not list homosexuality among them. So where is that law of God that the church speaks of and then why did God create those who from a tender age display mannerisms of homosexuality? Just to send them to hell.

      • Justice and Truth
        May 22, 2013

        Read Holy Scriptures, Romans, Corinthians, Timothy and James. St. Paul wrote of it as inspired through the Holy Spirit. Whatever is written in Holy Scriptures is the Word of the Lord, his commands and expectation of us.

      • May 22, 2013

        I think it would be fair to say some churches do a better job than others when it comes to teaching the Word of God. If you do not attend a church that is loyal to the mandate (great commission) Christ gave His church in Matthew 28:18-20 you will not benefit from the teaching it provides. On the other hand we should all read our own Bibles at home and humbly pray that God will help us understand His Word. You have asked the question “…where is the law of God that deals with homosexuals?” The Old Testament law did forbid homosexuality along with the eating of certain meats and the wearing of particular combinations of clothing. This law was for Israel during a limited period of that nation’s history. It ended at at the cross when Christ died and a new era of faith began that included both Jews and Gentiles. John 19:30, Romans 10:4, and Colossians 2:13-17. However, the MORAL commandments which reflect the character and holiness of God are repeated in the New Testament. In answer to your question the law of God that deals with homosexuals is in your New Testament. Please read Romans 1:21-32, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, 1 Timothy 1:9-10, and Jude vs. 7. People may live by the Word of God or they may live contrary to it. But either way, they will be judged by it! This applies to individuals and it applies to nations! Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist. http://www.livinghopeministries.ca

      • Gary
        May 22, 2013

        To Rev Donald Hill

        When you make the statement quote”I think it would be fair to say some churches do a better job than others when it comes to teaching the word of God” really, why is it the so called word of God is not consistent among Churches,why do churches have to condone each other to establish who preaches the true word of God,what is all that confusion about Gods word.Why would God’s word be that had to comprehend after all those years.Why are people fighting,killing and hating each other in the name of God’s word.I think all what is purported to be said regarding the word of God is not of God.I wonder when will God come in and say stop it.How nonsensical it is to say that people are going to be judged by the word of God.Religion with it’s word of God can do strange things to the mind of man.

    • MWENMEM
      May 21, 2013

      Does what you believe change anything. You beleve unicorns exists. Do they? My friend, the purpose of life is to find the truth. Not opinion or what you or I believe. Seek the truth and it will set you free, from fear, anxiety, impatients, paranoia and mental depression.

      • Gary
        May 22, 2013

        Very nice comment, well said. You know the main force forbidding mankind from finding the truth is religion.

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      Freethinker we have not heard you for sometime. I wondered what became of you. :) If you do not believe, I feel sorry for you for when you die you will see and witness the truth. It will then be revealed to you in all its form. Then you will have reason to regret it, that you were so foolish not to believe to your eternal detriment. It is better to believe than not to believe. Freethinker, pray to God for enlightenment. Humble yourself before God and He will reveal himself to you that you might believe and repent and He will exalt you in due time.

    • May 22, 2013

      Dear Freethinker: You want islands governed by reason and evidence not faith. Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat its mistakes. Reason and evidence, hmmm… Yes, I see. You would need reason to interpret the evidence. So no matter how much evidence I give you it will not get past your reasoning. But if I recall my history it seems ancient Greece was a civilization pretty much based on reasoning. What liberal and progressive thinking they became famous for! Buggery and man-boy sex was legal, and as acceptable as male-female marriage. In fact it was the pride of ancient Greece! But then Greece fell to a stronger and more disciplined power. Freethinker, I know you are somewhat of an intellectual. I would like to recommend the following books. If you ever find the will and time to read them you will realize that true Christianity is reasonable and based upon solid facts. (1) THE SCIENCE OF GOD by Gerald L. Schroeder, Ph.D., GENESIS AND THE BIG BANG, by Gerald L. Schroeder, Ph.D., THE HIDDEN FACE OF GOD, by Gerald L. Schroeder, Ph.D. (This man is NOT a Christian. He is a Jewish scientist in physics and chemistry), (2) CREATION, by Grant Jeffrey, Ph.D., THE HANDWRITING OF GOD, by Grant Jeffrey, Ph.D., (3) THE PUZZLE OF ANCIENT MAN, by Donald Chittick, Ph.D. These books (I think) can be ordered ftom AMAZON, the largest online bookseller in the world. These men all bdelieve the Bible is the inspired Word of God. The scientific evidence they offer is enough to leave the sceptic running for cover! Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist. You might like to visit my website http://www.livinghopeministries.ca and listen to my SERMON … Many Infallible Proofs…

    • MewMew
      May 22, 2013

      Think again, Freethinker. Are you saying categorically that there is no “divine law” out there? Or is it just your belief? Is this a case of “I don’t believe it; therefore it’s not real?”

      The growing number of skeptics doesn’t disprove the existence of divine law. Millions of people around the world refuse to believe in miracles; yet, those supernatural events occur on a daily basis. My mother died never believing that humans landed on the moon, but what did that change?

      Burying one’s head in the sand is no virtue. God does exist, as a growing number of renowned scientist are beginning to believe and proclaim.

  47. Concerned
    May 21, 2013

    The dangers of relativism. what is important for many persons is what “I” perceive to be good for “me”. Soon everything will be permissible nothing will be considered wrong. Its such a selfish egoistic, narcissistic world that we live in. Strong words, as long as it is right for me nobody else matters……….

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      One day, some of them will have a rude awakening to their regret.

  48. TW
    May 21, 2013

    well i’ll be damned

  49. Dr. Ben Haynes PsyD
    May 21, 2013

    The Bishop has said quite a mouthfull as to where the church stands on discrimination & criminalization of homosexuality. l wonder if D/cans agree with his stand? And even though there are too many issues on this topic time & space will this one issue only. This message from the Vatican no doubt is directed to governments rather than the believer man who has been conditioned to see homosexuality from a different perspective? ln this debate religion is the core of the fundamentalists hence ‘morality’ therefore, it is folly to argue what religion is and is not. Yet, to some faithfull members religion has no business in this arguement. Otherwise, we would not get anywhere. The Bishop on the other hand pointed out that criminalization of the act itself is wrong. Yet in the same breath he warns (Rom:13:13 & Gal:5:16-21)that homosexuality is an abomination of God’s law. Then, what’s the use of the church’s argument of morality as its role here? Will it be fair to include that for so years, this same organization knew, and hid the raping of young children (boys especially) with only a few of its officers punished not by its organization but the state. The Learned Bishop should be congratulated for his bravery but l think he has made the debate more complicated, and l am afraid he has to come better than that. l hope someone will focus on same sex unions with the same morale tone. We must however, pray for this institution since it is the last step to the gates of heaven. The church goes, then what?

    • Jah Zee
      May 21, 2013

      When the church (and by that I mean religion) goes, we may finally see a more peaceful world.

      • Justice and Truth
        May 22, 2013

        It is going nowhere. You will go before the Church. Think of where your soul will end up according to your manner of living. :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

    • MWENMEM
      May 21, 2013

      Rogue priests are operating contrary to the laws of the church. The church does not condone their actions. A policeman being a thief does it contrary to the law he should uphold. Judas was not representing the morality Jesus taught when he betrayed Him. Homosexuality and other sexual deviants are wrong. No bishop or pope can make them right. The church cannot make laws. It can only declare the divine laws of God.

      • Gary
        May 22, 2013

        I have always said religion can do strange things to the mind of man.Were does a Church or an Institution get the right to declare divine laws of God and Why a divine law has to be declared by a Church,on what authority.This is so erroneous.Why are you subscribing to such a belief.

        Have you not forgotten what happened to Galileo and what the Church did to him.Wasn’t it not the Church who said the Earth was the center of the Universe.Why are you suppressing your God given mind to see and know what divine laws are.Why make an Institution or church do that thinking for you,wake up.Some of us are asleep and don’t even know it.

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      You a PsyD, I did not expect any better from you. You must be either an agnostic or an atheist.
      People as you will never leave the Catholic Church and the priests alone. You are their tormentors. There are more good priests than there are bad ones. You make it sound as if all the priests are bad. You act as if you never raped a woman or did not commit a crime, forcing yourself on her or on them.
      Only today, in speaking about this homosexuality issue and those who lambaste the Catholic Church about the fallen priests, I discussed this matter with someone. We spoke of men who especially in the past raped women, forced themselves on them, teenagers and took their virginity and that, if all these women (some are obviously dead and some are still alive) lodged a complaint about them being raped (some were impregnated), how many men, single and married would be hauled to Court to face the consequences of their action and would have an exorbitant sum of money to pay to those women. You do not consider that. Instead you harp on what the fallen priests do. Next time consider it.
      How many women are there who have babies and the fathers never turned back? Some of these children do not know their father. Some of those fathers do not support their children. How many women were not able to seek employment because they had babies and small children to take care of? This has created poverty in the land. Then some of them, especially men, turn around and blame the government for not creating jobs.
      Therefore, when you and others keep bringing up the matter of what the few fallen priests did, think of this and shut your clappers. You are no angel. How many of you are saints? Some of you are on the path of perdition as God knows too well.
      Our Lord Jesus Christ said: “Let he who is without sin caste the first stone.”
      Thanks be to God for making me bold to state this. We must always be honest and speak the truth. Be fair. This pertains to each and everyone who continues to lambaste and speak ill of the Catholic Church and the fallen priests as if you are godly people. God knows you are not and have much to repent for lest you condemn yourselves forever.

      • Anonymous
        May 22, 2013

        Justice and Truth. Let me assure you, l am not an enemy of any church or religion, or group. But, the subject at hand needs to be discussed at every level, and every opportunity there is. l am a faithful card carrying child of the Living God. Not a religious nut that believes in the religious foolishness that makes many people dumb, ignorant, and psychotic. Sadly, church history is tarnished with the blood of the innocent, as much as the virginity of children. lt is what it is, and we have to call it when we see it whether Generals or Kings like it or not. l applaud the Bishop for his bravery coming before the public but l question his contradictory remarks of homosexuality which has been with man since the creation of time just as love, wars, triumphs, and death. History (biblical)tells us that man is a being of every sin. You may not know this but some religions were formed out of these sins. You decided to chide me because l questioned the so-called fallen that for so many years looked up to the heavens while destroying the souls of the innocent. That type of wickedness, evil lying actions that killed its victims soul must not be hidden under the rug. You and people like you may not like the truth but as Jesus the Christ said, the truth shall set you free. How l wish l had the time to discus this issue. But feel free to condemn me for my views. l can take it. Believe me, l would love to discuss more with you.

    • May 22, 2013

      Dr. Haynes: You seemed to have reached the very core of the matter. My own thought was that the Roman Catholic Church is giving with one hand and taking back with the other. On one hand Bishop Malzaire affirms the teaching of his church that homosexuality is a sin. On the other hand he is interpreting the latest word from the Vatican to mean there should be no civil laws against homosexual behaviour and such behaviour should not be prosecuted by the courts. Some see this as a softening of the Church’s stance on homosexuality. It does nothing to enhance its credibility. My own salvation depends on Christ and Him alone. If my church changed its position on homosexuality tomorrow (It’s not going to) my position would not change. Wny? Because my call to the ministry began as a teenager when I had an encounter with the risen Christ. What I preach is what God says in His Word and that will not change. Maybe this flipflop on the part of the Catholic Church will cause Catholics to go to the Bible and realize Christ – not the church – is the way of salvation! John 10:7-9, John 14:6, Acts 4:12, Romans 5:6-10, and Ephesians 2:8-10. I invite you to visit my website http://www.livinghopeministries.ca and listen to the SERMON on The New Birth. Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

  50. Anonymous
    May 21, 2013

    Some people need to read to understand. He is saying the decriminalization of homosexuality is the stance of the Dominican Catholic Church in line with Vatican and UN view point. So why doesn’t the Catholic Church only say they follow God’s laws so they do not comment or get involved in Man’s laws.

    • Malatete
      May 21, 2013

      The Bishop does not say that homosexuality should be decriminalised. He states the church’s view that “…free sexual acts between adult persons should not be treated as crimes to be punished by civil autorities”. This leaves the way open for judgement by God, whom the church has always held to be the supreme Arbiter anyway.
      Incidently, reading the Bishop’s statement carefully “free sexual acts” would also include buggery and as much as I personally abhor this act I do agree with the Bishop, as long as such acts take place in private and do not offend public decency. I also agree with him that whereas there should be no objection to civil partnerships, the church can never condone same-sex marriage as that is a sacrament, one of the basic tenets of the catholic church and I do not expect them to change their stance on that one.

      • Well! Well!
        May 21, 2013

        So am I to understand that it is where the act takes place that determines whether it is wrong or right? This is what happens when we start pussy footing around these issues, it creates a bigger mess – confusion. The Church cannot take two sides on a matter that scripture is so clear about. The Church CANNOT be neutral and should not present this statement of ambiguity. It’s either the Church takes a stance for or against. Stating no objection to civil partnerships is the same as condoning homosexuality. That’s the way I understand it.

      • May 22, 2013

        Malatete: Somebody said the problem with sitting on the fence is that you sometimes fall off on the wrong side. The Bible is clear on the matter of homosexuality. Any homosexual act – called by whatever name – is a sin and it says, “…they that commit such things are worthy of death,…” (Romans 1:21-32) It is the homosexual sex act that makes same sex marriage an abomination and not permissible. It makes no difference if you call the relationship marriage or a civil patnership or a domestic partnership. The two people are doing the same things in the bedroom regardless of what you call their relationship and THAT is what makes it an abomination. Of course a same sex live-in relatonship is not a marriage in the sight of God regardless of what readings were done, prayers were said, or pronouncements were made at a ceremony. It does not bring the bestowment of grace that a marriage brings. Rather is brings the judgment of God according to Jude vs. 7. The church cannot consistantly condemn same sex marriages and yet approve same sex domestic partnerships. They are saying the government cannot call it a marriage because it does not meet the critera and Divine grace is not upon it. But it is O.K. to allow it as long as it is called a civil partnership not a marriage! I am saying NO, a thousand times NO! It is NOT acceptable according to the Word of God regardless of WHAT it is called! Call it NOTHING – just two people of the same gender having sexual intercourse (however they do it) – and God says it is an abomination! I hope I am wrong – time will tell – but it looks like the Catholic Church is willing to compromise with the governments of the world by accepting same sex partnerships as long as they are not called marriages! The sex scandals and other problems have resulted in the Catholic Church losing members in significant numbers and much of the influence it once had. Keeping a working relationship with governments is a priority now for the church. If we are seeing a compromise it may be a matter of political correctness. One thing is sure. The faithful will feel betrayed. And so they should. Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill, D.D. Pentecostal Evangelist.

      • May 23, 2013

        Malatete: A church cannot consistantly say there should be no objection to same sex civil partnerships when such partnerships include sodomy or buggery which God says is a sin and calls an abomination. God has appointed human government to represent His will in the nations by praising those who do good and punishing those who do evil. Romans 13:1-4. They cannot sanction and legalize that which God has forbidden, condemned, and cursed, that for which he destoyed cities as an example so we would know how He feels about this sin. Jude vs. 7. The Roman Catholic Church has lost the great influence it once had in centuries past when the Popes advised Kings and were often the power behind the secular throne. Now in order to even be accepted by the governments of the world and the UN (shudder!) they are willing to say O.K. to same sex civil partnertships as long as the governments do not call them marriages. The reason the Catholic Church does not want same sex unions called marriages is because in the Catholic Church marriage is one of the sacraments and this complicates things for the church. But the governments are laughing at the church. They will legalize same sex marriage anyway. The church will not only further lose status. It will lose the confidence of more of its faithful and suffer a major setback for compromising. Christians everywhere should be saying an unqualified NO to decriminalizing homosexual behaviour and the legalization of any type of homosexual union. Let the church (the true church that is) be the church! The Bible shows the church is to be the army of God on earth. Ephesians 6:10-17. Let human governments rule in a way that allows the will of God to be done on earth as it is in heaven like we are taught to pray for. Matthew 6:9-13. Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

      • Justce and Truth
        May 24, 2013

        The Bishop chose his words carefully. I like to tell it like it is. He is not condoning it for he knows too well it is a sin, a grievous offence to God.
        God gave every one a free mind and will. It is left to them how they wish to live. The way they live will determine where they end up in eternity.
        Some of you do not comprehend that homosexuality is intrinsically evil. It is not pleasing to God for he did not create man and man and woman and woman to have affairs and to get married. One day when God gets fed-up of this, He will do with this world what He did with Sodom and Gomorrah.

  51. May 21, 2013

    “The Catholic Church maintains that free sexual acts between adult persons must not be treated as crimes to be punished by civil authorities”(Gabriel Malzaire).

    Gabriel, perhaps those very words were once spoken in the Cities of Sodom and Gomorrah!

    In reality, you and your pope, in this earthly hell as you term it the “holy see”, is indeed condoning homosexuality.

    How can people who professes to be a Christians; one who claims to be preaching the word of God condone an immoral act which God Jehovah himself hates; and as a result of him hating what is indeed a crime against humanity; you come here playing bishop, condoning what God Almighty himself condemns.

    “Go into the world and multiply” he said: that is a command of God; homosexuals cannot bring forth children, left to them alone the world will remain void of humans, and human life. The main purpose of a woman in life is to be a comforter to a man, and to bring fourth children into this world thus the earth can remain populated with humans until the return of Jesus Christ.

    There is a law in Dominica which prohibits homosexual acts in our country; so if your ideology that the act of homosexuality should not be punished by civil authority, your are not only placing yourself above the law, and commandments of God, however, also above the laws of our country.

    I am not suggesting that the civil right of anyone be violated, but surly, we should not in anyway condone homosexuality in any country, Dominica included.

    You of all person should be preaching against homosexual acts, never mind condoning homosexual marriage!

    Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

    • Gary
      May 21, 2013

      Why don’t you start your own inquisition.In the name of you God Jehovah.Intolerance is the most socially acceptable form of egotism, for it permits you to assume superiority without personal boasting.

      • Malgraysa
        May 21, 2013

        Gary, some people have forgotten about the inquisition and maybe not even heard of it. Or in more recent times “witchhunts”. God forbid we return to such barbarism, outright prejudice and intolerance.

    • Reader
      May 21, 2013

      I’m sorry sir, but you need to re-read this article. You sound like someone who clicked the link with your pre-formed judgement on what it will contain and did not take the time to understand. The more we try to come off as smart is the more foolish we sometimes seem. smh

    • Heng to Heng
      May 21, 2013

      So FET why you aways in Palm Sring Californa

    • riddim up
      May 21, 2013

      well said my brother

    • BRAIN DAMAGE
      May 22, 2013

      Francisco, well said.

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      Francisco, you are so stupid. It is obvious that you did not read the Bishop’s statements. Be careful of your words lest they condemn you. By this I mean to criticize what the Bishop stated. He stands up for the truth. Do you?

    • Anonymous
      May 22, 2013

      THIS IS WHAT YOU CALL A SMART FOOL

    • Justce and Truth
      May 24, 2013

      Francisco, in simple terms he is referring to de-criminalizing their actions, that is, not beating them, punishing them, imprisoning them and executing them. You do know that there are countries especially in the Muslim ones where this is done. I do believe that this is what the Vatican meant at the United Nations. It really is, in no way, he referred to Dominica.
      Some of you twist and turn what he stated. He is not condoning them. How much more explaning do you need to comprehend what he stated?

  52. CheckHall
    May 21, 2013

    It is wrong to attack anyone for any reason.But My issue with these sometimers, is that they do not come out when another person is attacked for being born , Black , latino , chinese, indian or what ever, and all that is your natural self.
    Homo life is a choice.

    • May 21, 2013

      I agree with you, it is indeed a choice, a learnt habit, it is the work of satan: however, satan uses so called religious people to condone what God condemns.

      The mess is rampant here in Los Angeles, it make people want to disgorged their intestines reading, and hearing about what these catholic priest has done to children; thousands of them are now men unable to cope with life, all due to the sexual abuse they suffered at the hands of these priest, and now that man in Dominica is actually condoning their act of homosexuality?

      What a shameful thing!

      Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

      • Anonymous
        May 21, 2013

        The more limited the capacity to grasp a concept, the wider the quantum leap from situation to likely result.

      • Gary
        May 21, 2013

        Why are you so ignorant. If you cannot read and understand something. The Catholic Church maintains that free sexual acts between adult persons must not be treated as crimes to be punished by civil authorities.Why would you think that such a stance by the Church is somewhat condoning Homosexuality.You portray you self to be someone who is intellectually sound and you make that ego of yours again prevent you of distinguishing injustice perpetrated on people and what you believe your God Jehovah wants.

      • Ole Skool
        May 22, 2013

        I believe Telemaque needs to read and understand before he refutes others.Writing disorder…….

    • Freethinker
      May 21, 2013

      “Homo life is a choice.”

      Cool. Can you prove it? No? Oh, okay.

  53. Anonymous
    May 21, 2013

    Just to repeat what the good Bishop said, The Church calls on us “to condemn all forms of violence against homosexual persons as well as to urge all States to take necessary measures to put an end to all criminal penalties against them.”

    AMEN TO THAT!

    • S
      May 21, 2013

      you must be gay!

      • Anonymous
        May 22, 2013

        Not at all, just happy!

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      It is quite simple but some people who think they are educated and know it all will twist and turn it to suit their warped mentality.

  54. Massacre
    May 21, 2013

    But , all the wrongs and ills that is going on in the country, with Gov’t and ministers just taking a joy ride to the end of month, no jobs, medical facilities,medicines in hospitals, no sports facilities for our kids to play, so much crime,inditable offenders getting bail, People calling their leader like Jesus, and you mean to tell me is that topic that bring the Bishop out of his shell??!!
    Why is he so interested in that one?eh?
    There are many topics that the Catholic Church covered in the UN and no other have I heard the Bishop commented on.
    Dominicans have morals my friend and we will stay so. As TD jakes repeated” In the last days the devil will find himself in High positions in churches and the world”
    Keep your heads up my Dominican people and do not let the wealthy and influencial pressure you into they evil ways.
    Amen!

    • Paix bouche always
      May 21, 2013

      If you read the article properly you will understand that the bishop was responding to a critic.

    • optimistic
      May 21, 2013

      you were coming with a good point but u color blind

    • June 12, 2013

      Massacre: There are obviously other problems in Dominica as there are in my own nation. With all these other issues you are asking why does the Bishop spend his time speaking about the laws pertaining to homosexual behaviour. You are not the only person asking this question. In fact judging from the comments I have read on DNO many are asking the same question. Your comments were intelligent and well written. I wish I knew the larger picture of Dominica’s society like you do. But as an evangelist who knows church life I would like to offer these comments. (1) All of the things you have mentioned are important. But not all of them are the responsibility of the Bishop’s office. (2) The issues of sexuality and marriage are things the church (any church) must deal with. The church must teach publically what the Word of God says regarding these things. (3) For nearly 2,000 years the church – through its leaders – has from time to timer advised government officials including royality and admonished them to honor the laws of God . (4) Church leaders in Dominica have expressed themselves regarding the homosexual issue at this time because it is current. It was the matter at hand that has to be addressed. Yes, there are good people in Dominica who know God and His ways. They are the salt of the earth and the light of the world! Such people are the hope of any nation! Let the beautiful “nature island” be an example to the entire Caribbean by continuing to honor God and His laws. Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill. Pentecostal Evangelist.

  55. jerseydomincian
    May 21, 2013

    people wake up talk to your kids becuase they getting touch by their young and aunty behind close doors.

  56. toma
    May 21, 2013

    So right, you have spelled it out clear, the thing that bothers me that these same people call themselves christians

  57. Me again
    May 21, 2013

    A remarkable presentation, Bishop. I fully agree.

    Now, let us see more of such candid pronouncements on the illicit activities that are ongoing in the political arena.

  58. same
    May 21, 2013

    i agree 100%. these homosexual people need to think deep of where they want to spend the rest of eternity. when i hear things like same sex marriage and homosexuals being able to adopt children, it is quite clear to see that satan is really the king of this world and wants to make everything and everyone secular. i know some people might not want to believe this but it is all a plan. God is coming soon. if you can legalize homosexual marriage, it would be hypocritical to still have other acts as crimes, legalize everything.( i’m not saying to do it , but that is commonsense). remember what Jesus said, he who is without sin cast the first stone. he didn’t say that to make the crime legal but for people not to discriminate against people who live in sin. so i am happy that the Dominican Catholic church isn’t going to condone it.

  59. rosa parks
    May 21, 2013

    I understand a 100% that these individuals are to be protected against discrimination because they are still human beings like us but if we as a God fearing country are to up hold morality let us live by the word of God and not contrary to it. So I say no to Homesexuality!!!!!! That is unatural

  60. Annica Alethea
    May 21, 2013

    Does this MiRiDom have a face or names? I hope they had the courtesy to reveal themselves to the Bishop or they do not deserve a response

  61. Anonymous
    May 21, 2013

    Which minority does miridom represent? If is just gays well call it GayDOm not mirrdom stupes

  62. Too funny
    May 21, 2013

    Well said Bishop!! I am not a strong supporter of the Roman Catholic Church particularly with respect to the molestation of little boys and what not. However, divine law is divine law. Man cannot supersede or change divine law to suit his or her lifestyle. I am all for every man or woman being able to live his or her life in a manner in which they achieve individual happiness. But like the Bishop said, marriage is between a man and a woman, PERIOD!! Only a man and a woman coming together can procreate, PERIOD!!! I live here in the US and they have all kind of laws accommodating this lifestyle because they (Gay/Lesbians) have deep pockets so politicians have to sing for their supper…..They (Gay/lesbian) must understand you change man’s laws but you cannot change or challenge God or divine laws. Remember Soddom and Gomorrah!!

    • May 21, 2013

      To Funny

      The most preposterous thing ever heard. Homosexuality is contrary to a Divine Law,how absurd.Have we not look around us and see divine laws in operation,is there there any controversy regarding their operation,if this was so the universe would be in chaos there would be no order and harmony.Divine laws operate on principle and does need our faith or belief to operate.An example of a divine is The law of gravity, it works constantly, it is recognized by everyone regardless where we live on Planet Earth.
      DO we have to go to a supreme court to established that the Law of gravity exists or not.

      What does marriage and procreation has to do with
      homosexuality, nothing, that argument is so cliche and meaningless as for the Sodom and Gomorrah.Why is it that God acted only once to show his disapproval in such matter while Homosexuality still continues, that’s not how divine law operates, there is no consistency.

      You are entitled to believe what you want. You also have a right to your religious beliefs but going about falsifying the truth to support what you believe is erroneous.Why are you asking people to remember Soddom and Gomorrah.Have you not heard of the Dark Ages and the inquisition.

      • Justice and Truth
        May 22, 2013

        I will repeat homosexuality is intrinsically evil. A relationship between two people of the same sex is totally wrong. It is an abomination to the Lord. Take it or leave it. It is your prerogative to believe it or not. I only ask you, whose side are you on, God or the devil? It is obvious to me that you are on the side of the latter. Too bad for you. Your adverse words will not change a thing. Homosexuality is wrong period!

      • Anonymous
        May 22, 2013

        I suspect “Gary” has a very keen interest in this topic. hmmm :twisted:

      • May 22, 2013

        What does it matter to you which side I’m on Do you think that life requires us to choose sides based on absurd religious beliefs.The most intrinsically evil is judging other people solely on what your religion teaches you.It is amazing how much time religious people like you spend fighting the devil by casting judgement and not realizing that if you spend the same amount of energy loving your fellow men,the devil would die in his own tracks. A religion which requires persecution of others to sustain is of the devil’s propagation.

  63. Jay
    May 21, 2013

    Amen!

  64. Marx
    May 21, 2013

    Very very very well articulated Bishop… before we jump to criticize the bishop and the Catholic Church, kindly have a read.

    • Justice and Truth
      May 22, 2013

      …And a thorough one.

  65. Anonymous
    May 21, 2013

    Well said Bishop. I concur.

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