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Friday, 28 November 2008
Relate cousellor who didn't relate to gay clients
The case of Gary McFarlane (47), the Relate counsellor (pictured) who didn’t like the idea of ministering to same-sex couples is due to be heard on 1 and 2 December, we’re told by the Christian Weekly News email that comes from Christian Concern for Our Nation (CCFON).
We carried a post on 26 October about it, but, briefly, he claims he was fired because he admitted that his superstitious beliefs could prevent him from administering sex therapy. McFarlane had worked for Relate since 2003.
He said that, while he had the attitude “each to their own”, he felt uncomfortable doing anything that would directly encourage gay sex. He says he hadn’t thought he’d have to confront these issues until he faced the prospect of providing therapy for a gay couple. That was when he planned to discuss them in confidence with his supervisor.
Some fellow counsellors had complained about McFarlane’s views, claiming he’s been homophobic.
The Christian Legal Centre carried a piece on the issue on 17 October.