I want to point out several inconsistencies in last week’s “SLU powerbrokers ignore Catholic Beliefs” commentary (Dec. 7, 2007). First, while the author clearly relates the Catholic Church’s condemnation of homosexual acts, he fails to provide evidence suggesting that the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender resource center would encourage these acts.

In my Catholic education, I have always been taught that someone’s sexual orientation does not necessitate sin; in other words, its OK to be a homosexual, but it is wrong to commit homosexual acts. I find it hard to believe that such a GLBT Resource Center at a Catholic institution like SLU would encourage homosexuals to act on their sexual desires. Within the dorms, the University goes to great lengths to discourage heterosexual acts through the implementation of curfews and encouragement of “open door” policies. To clarify: I ask the author how “creating the GLBT center inappropriately gives dignity, respect and even approval to the homosexual lifestyle” that includes participating in homosexual acts?

While I agree with the author that “homosexuals themselves deserve dignity and respect, as owed all human beings,” I believe he fails to note that in our society homosexuals often are discriminated against and disrespected. I can only assume that the GLBT center would attempt to assist them in their struggle for social awareness and appreciation.

In reference to the author’s second topic, I agree with him that reports of WHINSEC/SOA violence are sometimes exaggerated; the military school has graduated more than 50,000 students and only a few hundred are suspected of violent crimes. However, I find it somewhat hypocritical to use the teachings of Jesus Christ to defend any military institution. Jesus’ life revolved around peace, while the very existence of a military implies approval of violence.

George Doonan Martin
Senior
College of Arts and Sciences