He hoped that the gains won in Europe would transfer to Africa. Mr Tor queried the absence of a publication on homosexual theology. Padare participants hoped that sexuality would be put on the WCC agenda in order to have it included in theological training. At the same time, gays and lesbians should work on other issues, such as poverty and Aids, and should be in the lead in the quest for justice, unity and salvation for all people. Participants said that the Church has failed to speak on sexuality.
Compulsory heterosexuality needs to be deconstructed.
Same-sex relationships will always be deemed second class if there is no deconstruction. At another Padare event on gays and lesbians in the Church, participants said there is need to broaden the debate on sexuality and the rights of homosexuals so that this is not seen in the context of promiscuity. Spirituality and sexuality need to be viewed as together making up the whole being. Even in countries where gays can be open, it has not necessarily translated into an easier life for them. In Namibia, Black people do not want to discuss the issue of homosexuality as they believe it is un-African, said one participant.