[WATCH] NG Kerk says it’s ‘bleeding’ congregants but will abide by same-sex ruling
The Dutch Reformed Church says it will not be taking a ruling on same-sex unions by North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria on review.
The court found their previous viewpoint on same-sex unions to be unlawful.
But at the same time church says its “bleeding” congregants to other denominations following the judgment ordering it to recognise same-sex marriages.
In a statement, the church says the debate is not about homosexuality but rather the “belief in the authority of the Bible”.
In 2015, the church gave its blessing to same-sex unions but later changed its stance amid pressure from some congregants.
A decision the church describes as not disappointing but surprising because it didn’t “come from senior leadership but from grassroots member pressure”.
The Pretoria court also overturned the church’s decision that homosexuals could only become ministers if they are celibate.
The church further alleges that the decision was taken for “political correctness” because the presiding officer is alleged to have a personal relationship with President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“NGK ministers who don't believe in the Bible should consider an alternative career.”