Lutheran Church Forced to Conduct Same-Sex Union Ceremonies
The parliament of Denmark voted to force the established Evangelical Lutheran Church to perform same-sex “marriage” ceremonies inside their sanctuaries, although one-third of all the denomination’s priests say they will not participate in such rituals. The Danish parliament voted by an overwhelming 85-24 margin to compel churches to carry out unions for same-sex couples that are identical to heterosexual marriage celebrations.
Since 1997, homosexuals had been able to get “married” in a blessing ceremony after the normal church service. Under the new law, priests may opt out of performing the “wedding” service for theological reasons. However, a bishop must arrange for a replacement. Source and further information: The Observatory's Report 2012 on Legal Restrictions Effecting Christians in Europe