Cape Town - A petition challenging the Anglican Church of Southern Africa’s (ACSA) stance on samesex marriages gains momentum.
Led by the Desmond Tutu Centre for Religion and Social Justice, the “Queer Kairos Document” calls for LGBTQIA+ inclusion and equality within the church.
Recent developments within ACSA saw the Provincial Synod’s decision to deny prayers and blessings for those in civil unions.
The petition has since been initiated by Professor Sarojini Nadar from the Desmond Tutu Centre for Religion and Social Justice on Change.org. It is endorsed by several organisations, including Gender Dynamix, Triangle Project, Hope Africa, and the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation.
“Rooted in liberation theological scholarship at the intersections of gender, sexuality, and religion, this document reflects our personal commitment to sexual diversity, freedom, and human rights,” the petition reads.
The petition garnered more than 300 signatures from its goal of 500. In a statement authored by Nadar and supported by the various LGBTQI+ organisations, the Queer Kairos Document draws inspiration from the Kairos Document, which confronted the Church’s role in apartheid.
The petition expresses disappointment over the Anglican Provincial Synod’s refusal to bless and pray for sexually diverse couples, viewing it as indicative of a profound theological crisis.
“To withhold blessings from couples wishing to be in covenantal love is a contradiction to the gospel, as it assumes that God’s love can be portioned out based on human prejudice,” it reads.
Nadar argues that denying queer individuals the right to receive blessings for relationships rooted in mutual respect and fidelity—regardless of gender—is a form of injustice.
“We call on all churches in South Africa and beyond to reject the commodification of blessings and embrace a radical, inclusive love that reflects the true gospel of Christ,” she said. ACSA did not respond to requests for comment yesterday.
Cape Argus