Do you believe people are born gay?

[distracted]

So your saying that all of the priests that commited this sin were

influenced by satan, I dont believe that at all , homosexuals are God`s children too . There are still many gay priests throughout the church, they are maybe not practicing homosexuals, but they are there.

well its rather simple… 1 + 1 always = 2.

mortal sin + no repentance before death = Hell

i believe in saving homosexuals from Hell by telling them that practiccing such things is going to lead them there…

some people “love” them too much to say such things…

 

[carinapir]

Yes, I believe that some homosexuals were born that way. Others have chosen it based on various factors in their lives. As other posters have said, there are many homosexuals who fervently claim that they have no control over what they are attracted too, just as a heterosexual man or woman has no control over the fact that they are physically attracted to the opposite sex. And I believe them.

What all homosexuals DO have a choice in is whether they act on those feelings an engage in sex. Some homosexuals do remain celibate, or try to, and I believe that they should be encouraged and not continuously looked down on as being the sexual heathens. They are trying leave that behind. I think that most reasonable Catholics feel similarly.

Also, because of the way the OP was written I wanted to add that, in secular society, lesbianism is not really the same thing as male homosexuality. In society, men are turned on by two women together and it does not carry the “ick” factor of male homosexuality. So women experimenting with lesbianism is more prevalent and I don’t think would be fair to use the fact that many women experiment with lesbianism and then get married as a good example of how people are not born homosexual. This does not mean that some women are not born homosexual, it’s just that our secular sex culture allows women a lot of room to experiment so you will see women who are otherwise heterosexual, engaging in homosexual behavior.

 

[Kevin42]

While an anecdote should never take the place of facts, as I homosexual, I will tell you in brief what I know. First of all, I grew up in a very loving and functional household and both of my parents have always been there for me. We have had no major family problems ever. Secondly, I can never remember not being attracted to other men. I have never been physically attracted to women, nor have I been interested in being in a long term relationship with them. Third, through prayer and my own efforts I tried unsuccessfully since I was 13 to change my sexuality - no luck there though (yet, at least). Fourth, I am a faithful Catholic, and am very educated in the faith. I have been very interested in Catholicism since I was young, and for a while considered being a priest (until I decided that was probably not very prudent for now).

I have done a research paper for one of my classes, and while I don’t have it available with me at this time, I can say that my findings indicated that people just really don’t know what causes it. The ideas that a dysfunctional family, overbearing mother/not there father, being abused, and etc. are not very favoured by the scholarly community as far as I could see. At the same time, there is little valuable evidence to support that it is genetic. There are recent studies underway that may indicate a genetic predisposition passed down with the mother’s X chromosome. However, as far as I could tell, these are not anywhere close to being definitive studies, and more work is being done. My personal theory developed through my research though is that people have a genetic predisposition, and then something in their environment will “pull the trigger”.

I also must say that “opinions” on this issue are really irrelevant, and perhaps even dangerous. It is unclear to scientists what causes homosexuality, and people should simply accept that to be the case. It is foolish to say, “I think X.” If there is no evidence to support what you are saying, then your “opinion” is pretty much useless. The Church recognizes that the cause is unknown, and we should maintain this open-mindedness until science gives us more definitive answers.

 

[teachccd]

I’m a former fundamentalist, turned liberal Quaker-ish, now Catholic. My opinion at all points has been well-summed up by a paragraph from the APA’s website:
There is no consensus among scientists about the exact reasons that an individual develops a heterosexual, bisexual, gay, or lesbian orientation. Although much research has examined the possible genetic, hormonal, developmental, social, and cultural influences on sexual orientation, no findings have emerged that permit scientists to conclude that sexual orientation is determined by any particular factor or factors. Many think that nature and nurture both play complex roles; most people experience little or no sense of choice about their sexual orientation.
Two facts are undeniable: most self-identified homosexuals fervently claim that no matter how hard they try, they cannot cease feeling same-sex attractions. This includes a number of people well-versed in Catholic morals of sexuality. This can be seen in a significant number of Catholic homosexuals who remain celibate forever. If they could become straight, surely, surely they would do so, rather than remain celibate forever. And the fact that they remain celibate despite what must be overwhelming urges speaks to their deep understanding of Catholic morality, so we cannot attribute their feelings to been lost in sin.

The second undeniable fact is that some people, albeit far less than the above group, claim to have “switched” preferences, or can satisfactorily ignore one preference over another. For such people, homosexuality is pretty clearly some manner of choice.

This leaves us to agree with the predominant psychological model today–sexual orientation, by which I mean one’s uncontemplated attractions, occurs on a spectrum from fully heterosexual (I myself have never felt any same-sex attraction) to fully homosexual (people, such as a Catholic friend of mine, who swear to have only felt same sex attractions, no matter how hard they try), and then people in between who are able to exert some control over their feelings.

This all, of course, is completely separate from what is sinful. Have sex outside of a marriage between a man and a woman is a sin, period. I make a choice to cheat on my wife, in the same way as a homosexual makes a choice to have sex with another man. Each choice is sinful in much the same way. And while it is likely easier for me to avoid my sin than a homosexual his, that is simply the cross we have to bear. Just as saying homosexuality is a sinful choice ignores a broad base of evidence, saying that because it is not chosen, giving in to same-sex attraction it must not be a sin, ignores a broad base of morality. Frankly, I think the CCC has settled this issue quite well.

Excellent post…

 

[teachccd]

When You attain a certain height of Spiritual maturity, then the Judgment stops. Being of human nature, we tend to be judgmental & mean sometime, thats why we have to replace debase human nature with divine nature. When we reach higher levels of spirituality, it changes us to see God in every Human being, no matter what lifestyle they live. We are ALL Gods children, no matter what. He created us all , not the devil. Every one is not gifted the same, some are strong, some are weak, some are endowed with high intelligence, others are not. We are not all created equal, so we all cannot think the same about certain issues. We are all works in progress,which will never stop till our dying day

Very well said and I could not agree with you more. I was commenting on what I am observing in the posts not judging souls. If my maturity level has not reached past racist comments, for example, it does not make my comments any less ignorant.

I admire your seeing the diversities but that does not excuse one from making statements that can be hurtful as I have seen here. I am the least perfect person here and I will be the first to admit that. I have a whole journey ahead of me but I can still discern whether or not a comment of mine may be distasteful or hurtful.

If you were a young person fighting with same-sex attraction would you see every post here as pastoral and Christ-like? Well, there might be someone like that who is reading through this thread. And to that person the poster’s spiritual level is not taken into account but his/her words are…God bless…teachccd

 

[teachccd]

While an anecdote should never take the place of facts, as I homosexual, I will tell you in brief what I know. First of all, I grew up in a very loving and functional household and both of my parents have always been there for me. We have had no major family problems ever. Secondly, I can never remember not being attracted to other men. I have never been physically attracted to women, nor have I been interested in being in a long term relationship with them. Third, through prayer and my own efforts I tried unsuccessfully since I was 13 to change my sexuality - no luck there though (yet, at least). Fourth, I am a faithful Catholic, and am very educated in the faith. I have been very interested in Catholicism since I was young, and for a while considered being a priest (until I decided that was probably not very prudent for now).

I have done a research paper for one of my classes, and while I don’t have it available with me at this time, I can say that my findings indicated that people just really don’t know what causes it. The ideas that a dysfunctional family, overbearing mother/not there father, being abused, and etc. are not very favoured by the scholarly community as far as I could see. At the same time, there is little valuable evidence to support that it is genetic. There are recent studies underway that may indicate a genetic predisposition passed down with the mother’s X chromosome. However, as far as I could tell, these are not anywhere close to being definitive studies, and more work is being done. My personal theory developed through my research though is that people have a genetic predisposition, and then something in their environment will “pull the trigger”.

I also must say that “opinions” on this issue are really irrelevant, and perhaps even dangerous. It is unclear to scientists what causes homosexuality, and people should simply accept that to be the case. It is foolish to say, “I think X.” If there is no evidence to support what you are saying, then your “opinion” is pretty much useless. The Church recognizes that the cause is unknown, and we should maintain this open-mindedness until science gives us more definitive answers.

God bless you for opening the eyes of so many who “seem” to have all the answers…teachccd

 

[Angel_Face]

*Dear Kevin42,
I believe you have presented probably the most efficient and intelligent answer to the question.
There is no real Scientific Answer on this subject and some of us (like myself) are just guessing if a gay person is born that way.
I am not saying this has not been an interesting thread with a lot of opinions, but I believe I will go with Kevin42.
God Bless and Keep Us All,
Angel Face
*

 

[teachccd]

Dear Kevin42,
*I believe you have presented probably the most efficient and intelligent answer to the question. *
There is no real Scientific Answer on this subject and some of us (like myself) are just guessing if a gay person is born that way.
I am not saying this has not been an interesting thread with a lot of opinions, but I believe I will go with Kevin42.
God Bless and Keep Us All,
Angel Face

I could not agree with you more.

 

[NoWhereMan]

Very well said and I could not agree with you more. I was commenting on what I am observing in the posts not judging souls. If my maturity level has not reached past racist comments, for example, it does not make my comments any less ignorant.

I admire your seeing the diversities but that does not excuse one from making statements that can be hurtful as I have seen here. I am the least perfect person here and I will be the first to admit that. I have a whole journey ahead of me but I can still discern whether or not a comment of mine may be distasteful or hurtful.

If you were a young person fighting with same-sex attraction would you see every post here as pastoral and Christ-like? Well, there might be someone like that who is reading through this thread. And to that person the poster’s spiritual level is not taken into account but his/her words are…God bless…teachccd

I get what you mean, I have seen some very hurtful things written on a lot of these threads, & perhaps I inadvertenly said some hurtful things myself:shrug:

 

[teachccd]

I get what you mean, I have seen some very hurtful things written on a lot of these threads, & perhaps I inadvertenly said some hurtful things myself:shrug:

And so have I. I really enjoy your posts. Keep me in your prayers. God bless…teachccd

 

[leeray]

thanks. that is my thoguht. Sexuality gets very distorted these days… and homosexuality is just another form of that…

some saint said that more people go to HEll over sexual sins than any other kind… not hard to believe.

Actually it was Our Blessed Mother who told the children at Fatima that.

 

[JanetF]

First of all for those of you who are catholic (as am I) and claim that homosexuality is a sin, need to go back and re-read the catechism. Homosexuality itself is not a sin…homosexual acts ARE.

We, as loving catholics are supposed to offer support to homosexuals, not discriminate against them, etc. You know, love they neighbor…

As to whether they are born with this affliction…no one knows for sure. I totally agree with the poster who mentioned those who lead a most righteous life while bearing a heavy cross will be greatly rewarded in heaven.

 

[Christopher68]

I am confused why the OP asked if we belive people are ‘born gay’ and to also state our religion, as if the two have any correlation whatsoever???

There have been several comments stating that we don’t really know for certain whether poeple are born gay or not, but I certainly tend to believe that they are. There are a variety of reasons why I believe this, but one seems quite obvious - with all the oppression that gay people put up with from certain segments of the population, it seems unfathomable to me that someone would ‘choose’ a lifestyle knowing all of the discrimination that goes along with it. That makes absolutely no sense whatsoever.

 

[teachccd]

I am confused why the OP asked if we belive people are ‘born gay’ and to also state our religion, as if the two have any correlation whatsoever???

There have been several comments stating that we don’t really know for certain whether poeple are born gay or not, but I certainly tend to believe that they are. There are a variety of reasons why I believe this, but one seems quite obvious - with all the oppression that gay people put up with from certain segments of the population, it seems unfathomable to me that someone would ‘choose’ a lifestyle knowing all of the discrimination that goes along with it. That makes absolutely no sense whatsoever.

Boggles the mind, doesn’t it??

 

[crazzeto]

I hate to say it, but in certain faith groups there’s it’s definetly taught that you shouldn’t accept certain idea’s like people could possibly be born gay regardless of what science in the end does or does not say. They think it’s just an evil sin and don’t want to risk giving people a pass on “well I was born that way”… For others of us, we’re more than willing to accept it could be both their nature (i.e. they were born that way), and accept that it’s still sinful anyway.

 

[Magnus1981]

First of all for those of you who are catholic (as am I) and claim that homosexuality is a sin, need to go back and re-read the catechism. Homosexuality itself is not a sin…homosexual acts ARE.

We, as loving catholics are supposed to offer support to homosexuals, not discriminate against them, etc. You know, love they neighbor…

As to whether they are born with this affliction…no one knows for sure. I totally agree with the poster who mentioned those who lead a most righteous life while bearing a heavy cross will be greatly rewarded in heaven.

This is correct, and in the case of any sin, for that matter, it can be summed-up in this simple mantra:

Love the sinner; rebuke the sin.

 

[Dousias]

Hi everybody!

I’m new to the list and this thread. Been looking for a subject to jump in and speak my mind so here I am.

I don’t think we are born gay or straight at all. I feel we start out sorta neutral and then develop into sexual beings over time. I have no clue why some people go one way or the other, I leave that question to greater minds than I! I do know applying labels like “straight” or “gay” like they were absolutes is inaccurate. Even the Kinsey scale fails to truly describe the wide range of emotional and physical elements of an individual’s sexuality. I don’t think there is anyone who could honestly say they are at one extreme or the other.

Now here on this forum it would seem there is a lot of moralizing on a person’s sexuality.
I personally do not understand why this is so. If a religious person wishes to be in a hetro marriage and only make love under a full moon then by goodness they should be able to do so. But what gives them the right to judge a gay couple for doing the same thing? Why should they care? Why should the Church care?

I don’t get it at all.

Blessed be, Dousias

 

[crazzeto]

Hi everybody!

I’m new to the list and this thread. Been looking for a subject to jump in and speak my mind so here I am.

I don’t think we are born gay or straight at all. I feel we start out sorta neutral and then develop into sexual beings over time. I have no clue why some people go one way or the other, I leave that question to greater minds than I! I do know applying labels like “straight” or “gay” like they were absolutes is inaccurate. Even the Kinsey scale fails to truly describe the wide range of emotional and physical elements of an individual’s sexuality. I don’t think there is anyone who could honestly say they are at one extreme or the other.

Now here on this forum it would seem there is a lot of moralizing on a person’s sexuality.
I personally do not understand why this is so. If a religious person wishes to be in a hetro marriage and only make love under a full moon then by goodness they should be able to do so. But what gives them the right to judge a gay couple for doing the same thing? Why should they care? Why should the Church care?

I don’t get it at all.

Blessed be, Dousias

Well, neither we nor the church can do the judging, I think that’s the disconnect here. And I’m speaking as one who replyed to this thread saying homosexuality is indeed sinful, and that no matter how natural it may seem to the parties involved it is sinful.

By my saying homosexuality is sinful I am niether judging, nor admonitishing a homosexual couple. I’m not sending them to hell, nor am I trying to because I can’t. Only God can make the judgment. What I can and must do, what we all can and must do, how ever is to admit to reality. Close study of Sacrade Scripture and Sacrade Tradition is very clear, homosexuality is sinful, it’s sinful in the same context as another thread running in this very forum about a Divorouced couple who hate eachother meeting for regular sex even if they’re not contracepting. Both with homosexuality, and in the senario I just described the relationship isn’t for God in any capacity. The sex (we assume there will be) isn’t for God in any capacity, it is purely selfish in both cases. Any act which is motivated purely out of selfishness is sinful, particularly when it deals with Gods natural law.

So when I, and the rest of us I would imagin, post here saying “but it’s still sinful”, that is us demonstrating our love of homosexual persons by reminding them that the act is sinful and will lead to seperation from God.

I hope this helps you understand our position, God Bless!

 

[s4angel]

I have watched and seen many things…( but not as much as I will see )

I know that a person can be born with certain weakneses such as alcholism or even drug abuse. some of it is social in fact I would say a great deal of it is. I think that a person can be born with an inclination to a certain sin. However that being said another may be born with an inclination toward another sin, Homosexuality ( I mean the acts) is no different than a heterosexual who is inclined to sexual addiction.

I have sinned much in the short time I have been on this earth who is it to say that my sins were not just as bad??? Did I have sex out of marraige? did I lie, did I steal, have I ever hurt someone with my additude? We are all born with the seed of sin and it is up to us to overcome it. Perhaps this cross has been given to you to test your faith, it is up to you if you are willing to take on the challenge.

 

[HNA444]

First of all for those of you who are catholic (as am I) and claim that homosexuality is a sin, need to go back and re-read the catechism. Homosexuality itself is not a sin…homosexual acts ARE.

We, as loving catholics are supposed to offer support to homosexuals, not discriminate against them, etc. You know, love they neighbor…

As to whether they are born with this affliction…no one knows for sure. I totally agree with the poster who mentioned those who lead a most righteous life while bearing a heavy cross will be greatly rewarded in heaven.

I agree

That is why I think people are born gay. I never used to believe that was true, but I do now, because I realize that it is not a sin to be gay, however, it must be really tough for them because they cannot get married to another man, have kids, etc.