Spiritual leaders in these congregations encourage all their members to deepen and express their faith by adhering to core beliefs rather than ancient laws and customs. Historians have determined that homosexuality has existed since the beginning of humanity. Anthropologists report that lesbians and gay men have been part of every culture. Lesbians and gay men are represented in every socioeconomic class, educational level, and race. A homosexual identity involves both an emotional commitment to people of the same gender and membership in a community.
Longstanding relationships are common.
However, because of the social stigma expressed against lesbians and gay men, these partnerships are nearly always invisible. Same sex marriages are currently not recognized and many benefits for legal spouses are denied to domestic partners. Unfortunately, some people believe that gay men and lesbians should not be allowed to hold certain positions such as teacher, supervisor or health provider. They feel that gay men and lesbians are sexually irresponsible and less trustworthy than heterosexuals, particularly with children. The stereotype of child molester or hypersexual gay person is common but entirely false.