Personally I find this very inappropriate and in poor taste.
For anyone who knows me well or has read this blog, they will tell you I am all about equal rights for gays and lesbians, and it is my constant prayer intention for full inclusion and acceptance within mainstream Christianity one day -- being accepted as children of God as He created us. That being said, if you have a statement to make, you do not do it during a Mass, Liturgy or Service. That is just rude and in poor taste. You not only distract from the focus of the service -- which is to worship GOD (not YOU), but you disrupt the prayers and meditation of the people there. That is wrong.
Groups like the Human Rights Campaign constantly complain about Churches voicing their opinions about Homosexuality publicly, and scream about the separation of Church and State. I find it very ironic then, that some members of a group like this would find it appropriate to bring the state into the Church.
It surprises me that grown people in both camps - gay activists AND Church officials can often act like such children -- fighting each other in the school yard. Neither group is very good at respecting the other despite their different beliefs. Ever heard of agree to disagree?? How about lead by example?
Church goers could try behaving like Christians and treat others with love - and political activists could respect other people's beliefs and stop trying to force their views upon others.
It breaks my heart to not be fully accepted as a gay Christian in some Churches, but it makes me equally as sad when my fellow brothers and sisters attack the Churches in such ways. When will either side learn?
Gay Christians can make more of an impact by living the Gospel, being a witness of Christ's love and acceptance, and praying for change more than they will ever make by protesting during a service or Mass. The protesters that do it just to make a point (and are not "religious") - just stay home and do your work in the civil arena where it belongs.
Soap box speech done.
