Contemporary Christian views

• Many Evangelical Protestants believe that the Bible is the directly inspired and infallible word of God. Homosexual orientation and practice are therefore both 'detestable' and incompatible with being a Christian
• Other Protestant Churches take into account the insights of biblical criticism and of psychology and genetics. They may fully support the changes in the law, and seek to follow the example of Jesus who challenged social and religious injustice, treating all people as having equal value
• The Catholic Church distinguishes between orientation and practice. It accepts unreservedly those with homosexual inclinations, but expects them to be celibate
• The Church of England is torn between the liberal and progressive views of many of its members, together with the knowledge that many of its clergy are gay, and the fundamentalist wing in the UK and in other Anglican Churches, notably in Nigeria. The official teaching is that gay relationships fall short of the idea which is heterosexual marriage, but that gay people should be treated with respect. However, clergy in gay relationships should practice celibacy