The Episcopal Conference apologizes for past attitudes and views about homosexuality in Norway

5 decades since homosexuality was decriminalized in Norway, the Episcopal Conference has apologized for some of its past attitudes and views.

50 years since Section 213 was repealed, Conference apologises

The Episcopal Conference has marked 50 years since Section 213 of the Penal code was repealed thus decriminalizing homosexuality in Norway.

Olav Fykse Tveit, the President of the Episcopal Conference, has acknowledged that past attitudes and views it took on homosexuality had caused great pain, harm, and anguish to many. Talking to NTB about the marking of the anniversary, he said that “this is a recognition all the bishops in the Church of Norway agree on. It is important for me and the bishops to emphasize everyone’s human dignity regardless of sexual identity.”

Up until the 1972 decision to repeal the law, homosexuality was a criminal offense, punishable by up to a year in prison. Since then both Norwegian society and the Episcopal Conference have seen a change in attitudes and views towards homosexuality. Tveit noted that “acceptance and equality for homosexuals have progressed in recent decades. Since 2017, all couples are welcome to get married in the church. The church must have room for everyone’s inviolable human dignity and love.”

Source : © NTB Scanpix / #Norway Today / #NorwayTodayNews

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