In a separate letter to the denomination, Kirkpatrick acknowledged the sensitivity of the issues involved. He said he carefully selected the current legislation in Hawaii as appropriate for expressing the General Assembly s views on both marriage and civil rights for homosexual persons. Actions, such as those currently under consideration in Hawaii, are important steps to see that these commitments based on our Biblical faith find concrete expression in civil society. People who are spiritually hungry but have little or no relationship with the church are asking these kinds of questions. The print and radio ads feature individuals asking questions about matters of faith.
Congregations can add their names and addresses to each ad.
Ads will be sent upon request to presbyteries and congregations, who will be responsible for placing them in newspapers and on radio stations. Also available is a booklet, Being a Welcoming Congregation , already being used by several churches. In order for the campaign to be successful, congregations must be willing to welcome strangers. It is the assigned role of the Washington Office to advocate the positions adopted by the General Assembly on public issues, Kirkpatrick noted. It is my experience that our staff is extremely conscientious in assessing legislative proposals on that basis.