Questionnaire 1: Question 7 - Unsure Responses

‘I haven’t heard of any gay or lesbian people in the church, but I hope the church would be as open minded about it as I am.’

‘I believe the small corner of the Methodist Church that I circulate in welcomes anyone and everyone whatever their sexuality.  I cannot speak of the rest of Methodism.  Each person is a person in need and in need of Jesus.’

‘I do not think it (Methodist Church) does not welcome such and it should not – but seek to change their ways by pointing out the answer to question 6 [It is contrary to the Bibles teaching and against nature].  (As an older person I find the definition gay rather offensive as it has a completely different meaning.)’

‘Not too sure about this one.  I think they should welcome them.’

‘Lesbian and gay men can create a stigma and an uneasy feeling amongst members, but they should be free to worship God in a church.’

‘I cannot comment widely on this question, but from my very limited knowledge I believe that the Methodist Church may well welcome the individual whilst choosing not to recognise their sexuality.  As my comment does not really answer the question – I would have to say that I feel it unlikely that the Methodist Church would welcome practising lesbians or gay men.’

‘No direct knowledge’

‘I have had no contact with either lesbians or gay men within the Methodist Church (to my knowledge!) so I can make no comment on this question.’

‘I think this may vary from one church to another and also between church members.’

‘Other than the above situation [a minister stationed in *** under a cloak of great secrecy] I have no certain knowledge that the church or myself have met people of either persuasion so find it difficult to say yes or no.’

‘Not totally sure whether the Methodist Church as a whole welcomes lesbians and gay men but as you may see I think no.’

‘I believe that homosexuality is accepted and even condoned by a minority in the Methodist Church, but the majority of its members are not happy in the company of homosexuals.’

‘I don’t know as I have no personal experience to refer to in this matter’

‘As a whole I imagine it’s not perceived as being that welcoming.  Not least as the pro argument is not put forward in the public debate!  From individuals it depends on their view.’

‘I cannot give an answer to this question.  I do not know if the Methodist Church welcomes the above.  I can only answer that the Church I attend as far as I know do not welcome lesbians and gay men.’

 ‘Never having experience such a position I do not know’