The Code of Conduct could be interpreted as an effort to stifle all dissent or discussion on homosexual activity that could result in charges of homophobia - charges that have already been laid at the door of such Anglican provinces as Uganda and Nigeria.

Under the heading sexual harassment, obscene gestures, and inappropriate closeness and touching, suggestive looks and pressure for dates or activities with sexual overtones are explicitly condemned.

Also condemned are verbal or written sexual remarks, unwanted "jokes" of a sexual nature, and physical contact that degrades a person. "The aggressor for actions of harassment or sexual harassment may be male or female. The victim of harassment or sexual harassment may also be male or female."

Then there is this paragraph that might well be disputed by orthodox Anglicans: "The Anglican Communion has a long-standing commitment to encourage a lifestyle and pattern of work that respects the dignity and worth of each individual irrespective of social status, ethnicity, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability. Inappropriate behavior and harassment are wholly inconsistent with this commitment."

It might be argued that orthodox Anglicans do not "encourage lifestyles" contrary to the gospel even those in committed same sex relationships whether they are recognized by the state or some Christian denominations.

Homosexuality in Africa is regarded as deeply offensive behavior both culturally and theologically and it has been one of many reasons that Islamic Fundamentalists have used to persecute Christians. One deeply troubling paragraph says that persons making complaints and those about whom complaints are made should expect that the matter should be referred to the Police or other authorities for investigation.

Now we have seen what that means in the UK where a Christian couple who used their private home as a B & B lost a civil court case after refusing a room to two homosexuals. The Christian owners had to pay damages of $5,000 to the gay couple they turned away.

The two men brought legal action after not being allowed to stay at the guest house in March 2010. The Wilkinson's said it would have gone against their religious convictions.

Many former homosexuals argue that same sex attractions are unwanted and because they have declared themselves healed and now heterosexual they are being accused of self-hatred and self-loathing in their attempts to rid themselves of these attractions. In at least one state (California), attempts have been made to declare reparative therapy little more than junk science, even though many former homosexuals who have left the lifestyle and experienced healing profoundly disagree.

END