News in Brief : Southern Africa Synod Gathers

Notes: A summary of some of the actions taken by the 30th Session of the Provincial Synod of the Church of the Province of Southern Africa (CPSA) gathered in Bloemfontein, South Africa from 23-28 September 2002. Among other motions the Synod passed one which "Acknowledges and gives thanks to God for the role played by gay and lesbian members of the CPSA" and "Encourages the welcoming and affirmation of all members regardless of their sexual orientation, in all the churches of the CPSA". The synod also "unanimously endorsed Archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane's call for reduction in the risk of AIDS, including the correct use of condoms. ... Echoing the Archbishop's words, the Synod said `Condoms can save lives and effectively prevent the spread of HIV -- the virus that causes AIDS -- when used correctly. The morality of condoms is about preserving life'."

Subjects: Homosexuality - Religious aspects - Church of the Province of Southern Africa; AIDS (Disease) - South Africa; AIDS (Disease) - Religious aspects - Church of the Province of Southern Africa; Condoms - Religious aspects - Church of the Province of Southern Africa