August 18, 2010 | Sex & Society

Orthodox rabbis support gays

There is a growing acceptance among Orthodox Jewish rabbis of gays and lesbians.

150 such rabbis have already signed a statement that calls for the acceptance of Jewish gay men and lesbians into synagogues. The document, a "Statement of Principles on the Place of Jews with a Homosexual Orientation in Our Community," declares that "all human beings are created in the image of God and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect (kevod haberiyot)."

Adam Scheier, Rabbi of the Shaar Hashomayim Congregation and president of the Montreal Board of Rabbis said: "We have wonderful members of our community in our congregation who are gay, and come to us anticipating and expecting to be welcomed into our community."

The statement adds: "Embarrassing, harassing or demeaning someone with a homosexual orientation or same-sex attraction is a violation of Torah prohibitions that embody the deepest values of Judaism."

Que. rabbis sign document to accept gays [CBC]