Writer introduction: Mathaytace_Christou

Hi, I think it is a good idea for all writers (right now we have two but I hope we will expand) to write a bit about themselves so that readers have an idea where we are coming from.

DISCLAIMER: I am but one member of the board. Members of the board will disagree with each other both in the real world and on this blog. That is acceptable. The reader will simply be asked to understand that the beliefs and comments of one writer does not represent the whole group.

I am conservative Theologically and socially, but a moderate politically.

Important issues to me are:

Scripture: Scripture is the highest rule of faith. I believe that Tradition is useful in the interpretation of Scripture but shall never be on equal status with it as Tradition often contradicts itself.

The Sacraments: I believe that water Baptism is necessary for the Remission of Sins along with repentence (Acts 2:38) in all but the extremely rare circumstances where it is unavailable, and that the Bread in Holy Communion is the Body of Christ and that the Cup is the Blood of Christ.

The Creeds: I affirm the Apostle's, Nicene and Athanasian Creeds because they are Scriptural. Not because they are right or holy on their own merit.

Abortion- I believe there is only one justified reason for an abortion to take place. If the life of BOTH the mother and the child are in danger, I believe it is a sad necessity to save the life of one (the mother) at the loss of one (the child) than to lose both (the mother and the child). Abortion for convenience is disgusting and murderous. However as all men are sinners and worthy of the wrath of God, I believe we are to show mercy to victims of abortion (including the women who have them). Killing abortionists is as sinful as being one. God is Grace, and so shall we strive to be as well.

Homosexuality: I believe that Homosexual activities are sinful. The temptation to fall to this sin however is not. We should have mercy on those who have this temptation and help them fight it, not ridicule them as we are sinners ourselves. Non-celebate homosexuals should not be ordained. Homosexuals who have their sinful desires under control should be allowed as they are repentant before God.