Genetic controversy.I was in full accord with most of the words and tone of February's The Examined Life ("What I learned from Father Dan") by Margaret M. Brennan. I do take issue with one statement: "There is more than sufficient evidence that homosexuality is not a choice but an innate condition, probably genetic." As someone who has worked with an outpatient clinic devoted to sexual research and treatment, I think most research shows that there is no genetic difference when exploring orientation. In fact, the existence of identical twins identical twins pl.n. Twins derived from the same fertilized ovum that at an early stage of development becomes separated into independently growing cell aggregations, giving rise to two individuals of the same sex, identical genetic makeup, and who share the same genetic makeup makeup In the performing arts, material used by actors for cosmetic purposes and to help create the characters they play. Not needed in Greek and Roman theatre because of the use of masks, makeup was used in the religious plays of medieval Europe, in which the angels' faces but have different sexual orientations sexual orientation n. The direction of one's sexual interest toward members of the same, opposite, or both sexes, especially a direction seen to be dictated by physiologic rather than sociologic forces. is part of the "mystery" yet to be solved. So I don't believe the author can make as absolute a statement as she does. I wonder if homosexuality is not an innate, genetic condition, what are some of the moral and ethical questions that will arise then? Still, I admire the great sacrifice of straight and gay priests who bring their unique gifts to their ministry. Lorraine Williams Markham, Ontario Markham (2006 Population 261,573[0]) is located in York Region, directly north of Toronto, and is part of Toronto's CMA. It is larger than many Canadian cities. Despite its qualifications regarding population, it has not had the title of city conferred upon it by the Thank you for the many articles you have done on gay and lesbian Catholics and the church. Brennan helps to put a face on one more--in a sense. However, I would hope that more gay, celibate cel·i·bate n. 1. One who abstains from sexual intercourse, especially by reason of religious vows. 2. One who is unmarried. adj. 1. priests will themselves come out and put their own faces forward for those who love them and appreciate their ministry. Our church needs this shift, especially in the light of some of the hurtful hurt·ful adj. Causing injury or suffering; damaging. hurt  ful·ly adv.hurt rhetoric in the recent Vatican "Instruction." Father Howard Hall Wakefield, La. |
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