The obsession with sexuality, and what people do
with their genital organs, is something that is a blot on the reputation
of many faiths and sections of those faiths.

If you believe that homosexuality is not 'a sin' per se, then it follows that a LOVING and
faithful gay relationship is as worthy of respect as a similar straight
one.

Conversely, highly promiscuous gay behavior is as unacceptable,
devaluing of the person, and generally cruel and inconsiderate among gay
people as among straight people.

One form of sexuality among
consenting adults does not take precedence over another.

So why should we we worry about gay clergy or about not welcoming gay couples into our
synagogues, churches or mosques? Indeed, I would argue that they are just
as welcome as anyone else.

Where we draw the line is where active
cruelty or exploitation are part of what motivates someone in their sexual
behavior-- so no to sadists, pedophiles, and anyone else whose sexual
behavior challenges our ideas about love, fidelity and creating a home in
which the worship of God can be a key element.

Speaking as President of Liberal Judaism in the UK, it gives me particular
pleasure that we were the first religious organization in the UK to
publish a religious service of blessing to take place after the enactment
of a civil partnership between a same sex couple.

That seems to me to sit
with our principles, and to be part of what an open, generous,
understanding and clear view of modern progressive Judaism should be.