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I don’t know about you, but I can hardly beleive there are Christian footy players boycotting a game because they don’t want to wear pride jerseys.

Seven of the Manly Sea Eagles players say that wearing a pride jersey is an affront to their Christian faith. That might be the case, but I can’t help noticing their faith hasn’t stopped them wearing jerseys promoting gambling. It could be argued that as Christians they ought to be more concerned about the effect that gambling advertising has on society.

What also disappointed was to find the Anglican and Roman Catholic Archbishops weighing in on the issue. After the scandals in their own churches in recent years I hardly think they are in a position of moral authority to pass any judgement. In fact, I would strongly suggest both men do more to clean up their own organisations before picking on others because of their sexuality.

It could be argued that this sort of response from the churches shows why increasing numbers of people no longer wish to align themselves as Christian.

Admittedly Des Hasler and the club could have handled the Manly pride jersey issue better, but nonetheless their intentions were noble. That is, extending warmth and loving compassion to people who deserve acceptance rather than condemnation. That’s surely the Christ-like thing to do.

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9 Comments

  1. Barbara Johnson 27 July 2022 at 15:19 - Reply

    Well said couldn’t agree more.They have no problem promoting gambling which ruins many lives and breaks down so many families units.

    • Namey 25 December 2022 at 22:17 - Reply

      I wonder about your idea of Jesus. He loves all but does not condone or promote their sin. As we should. Comparison to gambling is a moot argument.

  2. Agnes McInerney 27 July 2022 at 15:54 - Reply

    Honest to God, Rev Bill, the way the World is to-day and they are worrying about wearing a bloody jersey!!
    If I had their worries I’d throw my own away!!!

  3. John Pritchard 27 July 2022 at 20:30 - Reply

    Bill, I think the idea behind the jersey was a good one. I also like design of the jersey! I cannot believe the attitudes of these players, nor some of the FoxNRL commentators. I simply believe in inclusion and allowing people to be happy. These players need to reflect upon the effects on many others of their selfish, uninformed stand.

  4. Paul Gordon 27 July 2022 at 21:13 - Reply

    Spot on Bill. I can’t believe that the gaming logo is not a bigger issue. Gambling is such a powerful addiction that ruins lives every day.
    Our sexuality is our own business and does not cause harm to others.
    And yes good on Manly for trying to be inclusive. Sometimes it takes going thru a storm to get to a rainbow

  5. Cameron Mcevoy 28 July 2022 at 06:55 - Reply

    Thank you for this wonderful perspective, Bill. I am proud to work for this great organisation that encourages compassion, love, and acceptance. The world needs more of this and it needs more people such as you.

  6. Lesley Palma 28 July 2022 at 11:44 - Reply

    That’s a wonderful outlook from you Rev Bill Crews. I could not agree more.

  7. Maurine 1 August 2022 at 09:36 - Reply

    Im with you Bill. Very disheartening to see the judgement out there. Tis really a speck/log in the eye, issue on display here for all to see.

  8. Wade Robertson 27 September 2022 at 20:47 - Reply

    Well said Bill

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