CNN

Yeah, well the bible says that eating shellfish is an abomination... So such your traps you ignorant hypocrites- why not pay attention to what Jesus said from the sermon on the mount- don't worry about the splinter in someone elses eye, when you have a plank in your own! God bless America, god bless Barack Obama- sincerly, a gay christian

I hate each and everyone of you with something negative to say. I accept god's judgement on that and hopes for mercy and forgiveness. I don't care about Rick Warren's backwards beliefs about homosexuality, and I don't care at all about having homosexual priests. It makes no difference!!!!!! Leave them alone!!! I wish this civil war would get itself over with!!!

wow I bet all the rabid religious nut jobs will not even recognize who I take my nick from. After all their bible has been revised so many times its very doubtful one can even attribute anything in it to their god. It is disheartening to read all the posts here from the alleged christians who are exhibiting the exact behavior that caused Ghandi to say he liked Christ but not christians since they were so unlike Christ (paraphrased).

Brilliant. He has a conservative right wing minister and an openly gay minister both delivering invocations. Oh this is going to be SO MUCH FUN watch. Both sides are going to squirm and whine. I love watching people get their panties in a bunch over nothing. I don't care that either of them are delivering speeches and prayers. I think it's great he's got someone to represent each group.

State the Obvious,

Dig a bit more into your history books and quit believing everything you hear in church. Our country was NOT 'founded on the bible and other (religious) traditions'. Your people have attempted for nearly a century to blur the line separating church and state, citing the religious tendencies of the people who founded this nation.

You fail to remember that our country's first European settlers were fleeing religious persecution. You do not recall that our forefathers intentionally put in place a strict 'separation between church and state' for the good of the nation, the general welfare of it's people. You are blind to the connection between the mention of 'god' in state texts and the fear of communism in the mid 20th century.

I am a straight man, but not blind to what is around me. Your statement that there is no hatred for gay people in this nation is absurd.

When I was a child, I was anti-abortion, anti-gay, anti-'racial mixing'. I was eating the cheerios that my parents, grandparents, neighbors and friends were feeding me. Fortunately, I found a bigger world out there during my teenage years and I hope that you find it as well. You only have to open your eyes.

" . . .I'm just not sure he'd pray to God the same way I would."

WOW!!!!!!!!! Talk about needing equality, egocentrism, and ignorance!

I think it was brilliant how Obama invited this guy first and then when MANY from the gay community complained about Warren, Obama DID NOT come out and "Hey, come on, I've got a gay bishop doing the invocation." No, he let people throw around their one-sided, selfish comments and it turns out he actually invited the gay guy first!

Everyone needs to chill out and the suppressed need to be VERY VERY aware of the unfortunate tradition of suppressed people getting rights and then turning into the same jerks their suppressors were.

2 Chronicles 7:13-15 (New King James Version)
13 When I shut up heaven and there is no rain, or command the locusts to devour the land, or send pestilence among My people, 14 if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 15 Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place.

People our Nation is in spiritual trouble. If we put aside our pride, and confess our sins, and seek God's way of living, then He will forgive us and bring us into prosperity (heal our nation).

There is a way that seemeth right unto a man BUT the end thereof is DISTRUCTION, Robinson and all his Gay followers NEEDS to REPENT!! Remove the PLANK in his eyes before He tries to pray for others What's wrong with us Americans can't we see the comming of the Lord is at hand ? Please Read Matt 24 and Observe the signs of the time....

Robinson also said...

"God never gets it wrong. The church often takes a long time to get it right. It is a human institution, but one capable of self-correction," Robinson told the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. "I believe in my heart that the church got it wrong about homosexuality. "

Now there's a man that speaks as a true Christian – In his eyes we're ALL Gods children.

Good choice Obama

To those who think our country's inner morality should prevail should remember with the liberal elitiest agenda of anything goes is pushed in schools and colleges and by the media, as well as parents wanting to be buddies not parents our country's morality has gone to Hell! Our present generations in America are moral midgets compaired to our Founding Fathers. Obama has the right to pick who participates in his inauguration even if it is against my religious beliefs!

Reverend McKee, that is exactly the point I was going to make.

Yes, the Bible says homosexuality is a sin. Does it not also say to treat others how you would like to be treated and o love your enemies? Does it also say that to lie is to sin, and that all sins are equal under the eyes of God? So, those who believe that a homosexual priest is an 'abomination', are you okay with a priest who lies? Or sins in any way whatsoever? Why is homosexuality such a greater sin than everything else nowadays???

I think the message Obama's trying to send is towards both the gays and the religious: we need to drop the hate on differences in beliefs and learn to respect, or even better, love one another.

I respect each and every comment here and it is your loss if you cannot do the same. Know that hatred is your body telling you there's something you need to open up to.

When someone who confesses to be a christian and allows an openly gay minister to be part of this event, one must wonder about the his/her faith. No doubt God loves people but He hates sin. One must repent and turn away from sin including homosexuality. As others wrote previously, God hates homosexuality. Bible is very clear on this.

This is sick. How can he be a man of God if he contradicts what God teaches. It clearly speaks out in the bible against homosexualality. IT says MAN & WIFE. Look back to our founding fathers. They based this country upon Christianity and now look what it has become of. A bunch of people who want nothing to do with God. Stop saying that being gay is fine because it is not. It is a sin that is clearly spoken against in the bible.

I find it disturbing when a bishop that professes to follow the same Christ that taught not only love but self denial, control of the carnal man, true agape, pure love of men,,,when a bishop of psuedo Christianity changes what God is and what God taught, He needs to worry more about what he'll say when he stands before Christ.As for his concern about what message does the choice of what man to pray for our countrys future send...it appears this is the message ", that the media create values or lack of values and that the squeaky wheel gets the attention, will God hear the prayers of a sodomist?Isn't this anti Christ? God loves all men, but you can be sure He doesn't sleep with them!

To all those opposed to homosexuality on biblical grounds:

I respect your decision, as long as you are with equal force opposed to the eating of shrimp and pork, and in favor of stoning to death disobedient children.

And please, do your homework. this is not a "christian" nation (see, for example, Kramnick and Moore's "The Godless Constitution").

Here we go again, you say the word gay and religion together and the next thing you know people are crawling out of the wood work to say "no, my version is correct" and "no, my God says this and you're wrong." It's the same crap that's destroying the Middle East. Why can't you see that?

And at of all the horrible sins in the Bible where does it say that being gay is the absolute worst of them all. Come on you people, you treat gays like they are criminals.

Go live in Alaska with Sarah.

Dear State the Obvious,
Some straight people do have hatred for gay people. I have experienced it personally. Have you ever heard of Matthew Shepard?

@TCM Do your words reflect the real you or are you pretending .....
What you say Reveals who you are !!! Good Night Besure to take your MEDS!!!

To those who do not believe in the Bible, STOP trying to rewrite the Book! You are not even qualified to make comments about its contents until you are familiar with the contents. We who believe in it don't attack your 'Book of Nothingness' (seeing you believe in Nothing), so by the same token, stop attacking our beliefs!

Even though I have very liberal views but having a gay priest is little hard to digest. But I sure do not want to discriminate based on religious views. I mean birth control is a sin too but majority of the people...at this day and age don't consider it a sin any more.

Jesus says in John 7:7 "The world cannot hate you, but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil." It is not Christians that are hated, but Jesus Christ. He was hated then and when Christians stand for what is right based on Gods word, the world hates Him now. I pray for this Nation and my President and President elect as instucted in Gods Word (1 Timothy 2:1-6) and (Luke 6:27) **KJV** Homosexuallity is wrong based on Gods Word (Romans 1:24-32) It says in Romans 3:4 "let God be true, but every man a liar;" I will stand for God. All Christians should be praying for our leaders not bashing them.
Love in Christ

Pat January 12th, 2009 10:44 pm ET

I was happy to see Rev. Rick Warren invited to participate in a prayer at the inauguration, but I am appalled at the hatred and venom dished out to him because he is a born-again believer who believes God's Word that homosexuality is an abomination. And to have a male priest who is openly homosexual participate with an invocation, how can he pray to God, knowing that he is living the lifestyle he lives. How can he, and the rest of them, not believe what the Bible teaches? Because they have scales over their eyes, blind, but there is hope. Just accept Jesus Christ by faith and repent from our ways and follow Him.

Yes, it is true, God certainly loves everyone, Jesus died on the cross for all, but He said "except you repent, ye shall likewise perish" and that a man must be born again or he cannot enter the kingdom of Heaven. It's not what man "thinks" that gets him to Heaven, it's believing what Jesus said about repentance and salvation. One thing for sure, we are accountable for our actions and one day will be judged. Eyes will be opened, and it will be too late. Christians are not bigots, we just believe God's Word is absolute truth.
______________________________________________________
AMEN! AMEN! AMEN!

Well, I'm not sure it would even be the same God these two would be praying to. It seems Rick Warren prays to the God of the Holy Bible who destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah and Robinson prays to a god who approves of any kind of lifestyle as long as we are "loving". Christ said he came to fulfill the law not do away with it. (BTW-none of the scriptures are "obscure" – as Obama has referred to the ones he evidently doesn't agree with.) If Robinson intentionally lives in sin (yep, I DID say SIN} and claims to be a Christian, there lies the problem. Robinson doesn't know the true nature of God. The God of the bible does not approve of sexual immorality. Read Genesis 19; if you think it's a fairytale then you are saying the bible is unreliable. Therefore, why call yourself a Christian? Robinson worships a false God who he has conjured up to suit his desires. Simply stated: this is idolotry. I would say to Robinson before he prays in public, "What, symbolically, might this say to some of our citizens"?

"Religious wackos"? That's MR. Wackos to you, BC! Obviously, it takes a wacko to know one! Suffice to say, I consider 'BC' a wacko, too. So, that evens the field!

Robinson being a priest is an oxymoron! He is certainly not going by the Book he falsely purports to follow. It CLEARLY, unequivocally, and categorically says in words so simple even Robinson can understand in Rom 1:27: "And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.". What part of that doesn't he and his ilk understand? The cacophony from those 'wackos' like 'BC' notwithstanding, this is what the Rule Book says. If you don't go by the rules of any club, how can you say, with a straight face, that you are a member of the club? The naysayers have no leg to stand on. Yes, Christ said "Love one another". By the same token, he also said, "Repent, go forth, and sin no more".

Obama's choice is dissapointing, but it is typical of our times. We were once a Christian nation. Many of our Universities and Hospitals were started through Christian groups. And now we are a nation of Biblically Illiterate people. If you believe that you are a Christian, ask yourself if you have ever read the Bible. If not, how do you know what you really believe. Often people speak of My God, but if they are really honest with themselves, they will realize that the god they speak of is themselves. God wants you to know him, and that is why he put the story of his son in His book.
As for Reverend McGee's comment, Jesus does want us to love others as he loves us. If I was about to walk in to a burning building, I would hope someone loved me enough to yell STOP. Jesus came to fulfill the law. Remember the Great Commandments are first to love God with all of your heart, mind, and strength, and the second one was like it to love your neighbors as yourself. Note that God comes first.

Hate of a group, is not the issue. It is an extreme distaste for a life-style that is being forced on America as something it is not – legitimate, natural, unharmful. Homosexuality is not to be compared to being black, white, hispanic, or disabled. It is a life-style choice, nothing more. And unfortunately, it is a choice that twists nature and morality. When the gays stop trying to "indoctrinate" America and its children that this is okay, and yes, that they need to even "try it out" (there are such curriculumns out there), then they will see no more "attention" than drunks, prostitutes, drug-dealers, adulterers; in other words, they will simply be offered help and freedom they need, which, by the way, is offered them by many groups already.

Everybody needs to be careful on this site God no knows and hears and see everything that you people say, it's so plan to see that none of you read you bible if you don't please pick up one and read for you'r self you all know it's a sin so stop being devil's it's wrong wrong I hope one is standing any of you when you get struckdown.

Imagine for just a moment that god is a myth. All of your righteousness and anger over a gay man speaking at an event would be for naught. I completely understand the hippocracy of a bishop, preacher, etc being gay. But then again, almost every bishop, preacher, etc is a hippocrit based on what they eat, how they wear their hair, ad nauseum.

For a bunch of people who profess an almighty who preaches love, you sure are full of hate. Maybe it's time you put fairy tales and myths behind you?

So what would the backlash be like if he had a muslim do the invocation?

why do we need to be hit in the face with this crap

decision about sexuality do not need to be brought to everyones attention, I like Obama and hope that he will do well with his presidency, but I find this to be a mistake and do not need to hear what he has to say

Sadly I have a biased opinion but even if I was not a victim, I, and many others, and priests and religious leaders around the world consider this a shock and a shame as ALL religions state clearly that homosexuality is a sin. And we are to sin no more. i can't imagine facing God in the end, knowing his teachings and not asking for forgiveness, admitting my ugly weakness, but stopping it. Although God is a forgiving and loving God, he also created the world and in that world male and female are the only beings to have sexual intercourse. We are not animals who at time must show dominance of another weaker male; however the act is not consumated. All of us have sexual feelings; it is WHAT WE DO WITH THEM that matters.
THE ONLY GOOD SIGN TO ME ABOUT THIS IS THAT OBAMA IS A LOVING SOUL who was taught by Jesus, Buddha, Mohammed and others, TO BE LOVING, FORGIVING AND TOLERANT.

I'm confused.

Is President Elect Obama a christian and is he born again? .

I have learned that if you are a christian are born again and hang around sinners you will surely get into trouble.

Of course God is a forgiving God but he also HATES SIN

"and I think the transition team failed to ask the question of what, symbolically, this might say to some of our citizens." Or perhaps they are saying exactly what they meant and their motives are straight forward(no pun intended).

Gay Priest.Gay Reverand.Gay bishop.Only another Bible thumper knows for sure.Is that why they call them Bible Thumpers?

Looks like Obama is trying to please the critics who were upset about him having Rick Warren do the swearing-in. Good move.

I'm not Christian or very conservative, but it seems there is a very nasty anti-Christian/Conservative attitude that has crept into our society. There needs to be acceptance on ALL levels.

And this Robinson guy has some nerve to disagree with the choice of Rick Warren, simply because he's gay and Warren does not support gay marriage. Hey, guess what: people have different views on this subject matter. All sides should be represented, not just the loudest.

Obama's beliefs are only those things that need to be said, shown, or promised in order to keep him in power. All of you "modern," so-called Christians who "tolerate," this, really should reexamine your core beliefs. You don't have to hate the gay bishop, you just don't support it. Too many things have been "polluted," in this country for too long, and now it's oozing into the white house.

Wow abomination this and abomination that. Cant you morons think for yourselves? USE YOUR BRAIN> NOT THE BIBBLE!

Half the people here quoting the bibble and saying that "homosexuality is an abomination in the eyes of god"...dont even know what the hell they are talking about.

FIrst of all if homosexuality was wrong or an abomination or even a choice, then why has there been plenty of evidence of homosexuality coccuring in a number of other species. Did the animals choose to live this lifestyle? Ofcourse some of you will refuse to believe that there are gay animals even if the evidence slaped you in the face.
The corruped (by men) teachings of Christ have closed your minds and hardened your hearts...If Jesus was alive today im sure he would weep for all the lost souls that THINK they are following his teachings when infact they are following the devils; to hate and to spread fear and intolerance. HOW SAD.

To Mark in Chicago- It seems that Obama selected Gene Robinson BEFORE he chose Rick Warren. I don't think he is trying to placate anybody. It seems that he is attempting to be inclusive rather than divisive.

Personally, since heterosexuals can get married without religion involved in the United States, I do not see the point of arguing why homosexual marriage is wrong – and using any form of religion as the reason. There is more than one belief in America and even those who do not believe in any particular religion, so again, why should we use religion as the main factor as to why it is wrong.

Denying two people to be married without religion involved because they are of the same sex but allowing it for a heterosexual couple is not only hypocritical but discriminatory. My solution, let two people that are of legal age in their state and who are not legally married elsewhere regardless of sex be given the opportunity to be married (do not call it civil union) without religion. For those couples who wish to perform a religious ceremony, give them the right to seek a minister, preacher, etc to perform the ceremony. If the church does not approve of the marriage, the church should reserve the right to refuse to marry the couple – regardless of sex.

Regardless of the fact that Rev. Gene Robinson is openly gay, I am happy to see that Obama is entering into this Presidency with an open mind..

I am not homosexual and do not believe people who practice homosexuality understand the bible correctly. In fact I lean toward the conservative side on most issues. However, one of the main ways someone draws closer to God is to get on their knees and ask for counsel from Him. Through prayer, many people have become refined in their walk with God, understood better their faults, and asked for repentance. To be upset that Mr. Robinson is participating in this way, in a public forum, is hypocritical. I can only hope that Mr. Robinson's prayer serves to cause himself and others the reflection necessary in order to better understand God.

I personally would prefer that an openly gay bishop not be a part of the inauguration, however, It's not like Obama is giving him a cabinet position or asking him to advise him on policy. It's one prayer. One that I doubt my God will hear, but none the less, it's still just one prayer. Let's keep this in perspective. Robinson isn't going to turn anyone gay and Warren isn't going to turn anyone straight. They're going to pray and that's it. On Jan 21st the economy will still be priority #1.

I hope the lush is dried out enough to do a decent job. For the benefit of the Church he should have gone over the side a long long time ago!

@George January 12th, 2009 9:25 pm ET

George

You're insulting me, and you support Obama...??? That's like slapping your own face, and beating your kids at the same time...you idiot! Your vote put him there, so it's your and that idiot "home of the free's" loss...you'll see...

There are two ways to cover diversity. One could choose to be a centrist, or pick the two extremes of the whole spectrum.

People who try to dictate how others should live are far better off fretting about the idiosyncrasies of their own lives; which probably demand far more attention than what they spend on trying to oust the gay population from its stringent and unfortunate path.

Calm down and leave well enough alone. I don't even believe in Jesus, but I know he did say some great things about loving your neighbor, about not judging others, and about not casting stones unless you yourself are without sin. Many homophobes often throw these things on the back burner and quote scripture from the Old Testament instead.

Focus on your own lives, leave people be for heaven's sake. No amount of praying or yelling or hating will change the facts; gays aren't going anywhere, its time to move on and learn to live with it.

Obama, you can't please everyone. You've disgusted me and hopefully every other self-respecting individual who isn't gay. gay/bishop? what an oxymoron. pathetic decision. too late to take back my vote.

Martin Luther King Jr. would not approve of what Obama did by letting a gay minister do this. He wouldn't even approve of a gay minister.

@Home of the Free

Being against homosexuality isn't racist....go to school.

Robinson has been at the front of an enormous rift in the global Anglican communion. The Episcopal Church in New Hampshire thumbed its nose at a Church which was not in agreement with with the appointment. His participation is hardly in harmony with the way the Obama administration wants to do business, whatever we might believe about whether or not there should be gay bishops.

This man is not a man of GOD. The Bible is clear., homoxexual behavior is a SIN. Hopefully this man will have his heart changed and will turn from his sin and turn to GOD.

reply to:

Gene January 12th, 2009 8:49 pm ET

FIrst, I will asume you are both ignorant and uneducated. Homosexuality IS NOT the same has Pedophilia, in fact I might suggest you are more likey to be a Pedophile than Bishop Robinson.

Second, As a supporter of the President-Elect, I was at first disapointed in his choice of Rev. Warren, but then I realized it is Barack Obama's day and thus his choice. We need to have faith that he will be fair, just with everyone and live up to his commitment to All Americans including the GLBT Community.

For all those bloggers who say God wrote the bible, you need to educate yourselves. God didn't write the bible. A human being just like you and me tried to interpret what he thought God said to him. The bible can be interpreted many ways by many different people. That doesn't mean if one person interprets one way and another person interprets it another way, that either one of them is wrong. I personally thing Jesus was the greatest salesman ever! He convinced people he was the son of Jesus, but most of us will never be able to convince even our own family to think like we do.

are we ready for the Obama nation to begin?

Good thing Jesus is coming soon!!

I am so glad to be living in the end times! exciting days are ahead!

famine, pestilence, disease, all manner of wickedness, etc.

are you ready to meet your maker?

What's missing in the analysis of this reporter is that Gene Robinson has blasted Obama's choice of Warren but Warren has not done the same to Robinson.

That seems to me to be an obviously important point of consideration.

It makes me think that those who are blasting Warren about being a bigot may not really understand the man or his viewpoints. And those lauding Robinson for being enlightened may not be understanding the man or his viewpoints.

God created man, woman, gay and straight. But, who created Idiots?

For all those bloggers who say God wrote the bible, you need to educate yourselves. God didn't write the bible. A human being just like you and me tried to interpret what he thought God said to him. The bible can be interpreted many ways by many different people. That doesn't mean if one person interprets one way and another person interprets it another way, that either one of them is wrong. I personally thing Jesus was the greatest saleman ever! He convinced people he was the son of Jesus.

I think is very unfortunate that we as a nation have come to this kind of abomination. It is our true God who will have the last word in this world. Its very sad to have a president elect who has no respect for the American people.
Wiggles,
Savannah GA

In general, this is a non-issue.

More importantly, so many of the people commenting come off as just plain stupid. Vent all you like, quote scriptures and raise hell about it, but it will never have a true effect; because no matter how much you pray, there will always be gays. Spend your prayers and your time on things more fitting and more altruistic, because the gay community could care less about your intentions or about how you feel about their soul.

Move on, to put it succinctly.

Religion is a wonderful thing – it is just very unfortunate we cannot correct all its problems by getting rid of people!!!

If two men or two women want to have a relationship their business. If they want to marry and change the dynamics of family, parenting, throughout society it's society's business. The world is gone to Hades in a Hand Basket.
It's hypocrisy at it's best. All are up in arms with Jeff Warrens' life style yet while he's imprisoned it's perfectly normal to put asunder traditional family values that were the norm since Biblical Days! Moralistic views are mocked and shunned. Religious beliefs can annilate a race. Those appointed to protect kill. Our children hero's are making today's headlines. God forbid we stand up for our beliefs! Equality reigns but we were never more unbalanced or divided and our children were never more alone, confused, stressed or agressive. Ya gotta love the new age!

I listen???? Do you... Nope Otherwise I would... But most of all!
They would.... America! You keep omitting....

Scientifically speaking homosexuality doesn't fit. If you truly believe in darwinism then you must believe survial of the fittest and the need to PROCREATE!!! last I checked it takes a heterosexual act to "spread one's seed." There is no proof that homosexuality is based in biology. Just a few papers offering weak correlations and as we like to say in the scientific world "correlation is not causation." I get tired of those who attack the religious for having FAITH in a doctorine, when all that is out there is FAITH in a feeling.

People once used the many quotes in the Bible to defend slavery in the same way they use one ambiguous quote to prevent homosexuals from being free.

We shall overcome. We always do as a nation... eventually.

It is a real shame. I was hoping Obama would stick with his first choice and show his strength. Instead he has shown his weakness. I hope this doesn't foreshadow his ability to be a leader. I am a dissapointed American.

At a boy. Teach our kids what's right....I mean left. Why don't you find more deviants to participate.

The world is gone to Hades in a Hand Basket. If two men or two women want to have a relationship their business. If they want to marry and change the dynamics of family, parenting, throughout society it's society's business. It's hypocrisy at it's best. All are up in arms with Jeff Warrens' life style yet while he's imprisoned it's perfectly normal to put asunder traditional family values that were the norm since Biblical Days! Moralistic views are mocked and shunned. Religious beliefs can annilate a race. Those appointed to protect kill. Our children hero's are making today's headlines. God forbid we stand up for our beliefs! Equality reigns but we were never more unbalanced or divided and our children were never more alone, confused, stressed or agressive. Ya gotta love the new age! (sarcasm)

Rodger Meyer, I couldn't agree with you more. In fact, you've done a far better job than I ever would regarding this matter. Thank you!

All true believers who are somewhat saddened by Gene Robinson's upcoming role should find solace in Rodger's comments. God bless!

Well it looks like another Clinton Time lag is on again.......All of the nuts and fruits come out for this one.....On the big day JAN 20th.....Nice thing about this is the Demos are going to turn on the gay bishop and obmamamamam man as ..Most people don't want this to be a staged event ....YA a GAy bishop and a Straight preacher at the same time .....Obmamamam needs to get new front men for calling in all of the fathiful on this one.......The nut time has started....Hang on america here it comes with no KY gelly....

Dear Gays,
Straight people do not have hatred for you so please stop playing the victim here. Please leave President-Elect Obama alone and let him address some real issues with our country

Dear Robinson,
You are misrepresenting the Christian faith and are the only one displaying bigotry. Please get off Obama's coattail and do not bad mouth Rev. Warren.

Dear FAR LEFT!
WHEN OBAMA SAID WE NEED CHANGE HE DID NOT MEAN CHANGE THE BIBLE AND EVERY OTHER TRADITION OUR COUNTRY WAS FOUNDED UPON!!! Hey gays and liberals, why dont you just write your own version of the bible and see what else you can try to screw up?! (if you arent already)
Sincerely,
Shrewd
ps. selfish gays & far left, dont concern yourself humanity and people with real issues, I hope you get what you want.

Please leave this poor old dude alone,he cant help how hes been programmed.I would like to thank this moderator for consistently throwing out my posts while leaving some of the worst posts ever seen anywhere on.Is that you Rebecca,you must really hate me for some reason,maybe the truth is to much for you to handle.

I was happy to see Rev. Rick Warren invited to participate in a prayer at the inauguration, but I am appalled at the hatred and venom dished out to him because he is a born-again believer who believes God's Word that homosexuality is an abomination. And to have a male priest who is openly homosexual participate with an invocation, how can he pray to God, knowing that he is living the lifestyle he lives. How can he, and the rest of them, not believe what the Bible teaches? Because they have scales over their eyes, blind, but there is hope. Just accept Jesus Christ by faith and repent from our ways and follow Him.

Yes, it is true, God certainly loves everyone, Jesus died on the cross for all, but He said "except you repent, ye shall likewise perish" and that a man must be born again or he cannot enter the kingdom of Heaven. It's not what man "thinks" that gets him to Heaven, it's believing what Jesus said about repentance and salvation. One thing for sure, we are accountable for our actions and one day will be judged. Eyes will be opened, and it will be too late. Christians are not bigots, we just believe God's Word is absolute truth.

Tolerence of murder and inappropriate sexual orientation is demoralizing and de-moralizing for America and Americans!

When PEBO does not protect the "least of these" and condones an ignorance of anatomy he is not wise but just politically pragmatic!

Well as long as the homosexuals are happy, then we'll be fine. Barack and his people may want to portray him as the great peacemaker and inclusive of all groups, but this ploy to keep people and votes on his side for more political clought is as slimy as you can get. People may think Obama is their Moses and others may think he is their savior, but he is NOT the second coming of Jesus Christ. Put your faith in no man, America, else you be greatly deceived.

Well I must state the dissapointment is great. This man is not a leader or an example. He signed himself into a drug and alcohol center after a spat with his male lover when he was in a total stupor just a short time ago. I am glad he was appearantly healed from that. Trying to please everyone is wrong and it shows definitely a path away from strength. Back to politics as usual.

I was going to offer a comment on this but decided not to since this whole argument about homosexuals, homosexual acts, homosexuality, etc is just stupid. If you don't like me because i'm gay it's a fair trade – I don't like you because you're an idiot.

This is embarrasing to our country. Obama's team's message to God – we don't care what you think. This opening act is disgraceful – This is 1000 times worse than the combined mistakes of every U.S. President that has ever served.

It's about time this country and it's leader truly represented this wonderfully diverse nation.

To Ross Hart

You are in left field and the lights are out. One day you will believe just as Darwin does now.

God is real and homosexuality is a sin!

For all those on here talking about God and the bible as relates to the evils of homosexuality, do you honestly not see yourselves as evil? I don't think we were brought up on the same God.

The election is over and he is still after the gay vote.

Tolerance and brotherly love are virtues, whether you are a christian or not. The hate and intolerance in this discussion scare and sadden me.

This is hilarious... Where are the atheists?!? I'm surprised none of them have come out and thrown a fit about a prayer being said. I wonder how many of them will be offended??? Hmm..

Gay bishop... totally contradictory. And Mr. Robinson's statement is a joke. His god is definitely not the same GOD that I pray to. So many people throw the words 'christian' and 'God' around. It's unbelievable how so many of you people talk about being a christian and yet you are all for gay rights and blah blah blah... oh it's so aggravating! You people give me a headache!

I think it's funny how people are saying us "christians" are so hateful and intolerant yet you people are bashing us for our beliefs and you expect us to sit on the sideline and be fine with it. We are all created by God but only few of us are children of God. And most of you making your comments are not.

One of these days, you will be judged and you WON'T be with the same God I will be with – that's for sure!

My partner and I were married in a very mainstream religious institution, by a real live very mainstream rabbi. We have a religiously-binding marriage contract (a ketubah) framed and hanging in our bedroom. God is a part of our lives, and we know He loves us, and accepts us as He made us. Period.

We are married. Doesn't matter to us what other people's denominations think or do. What they think of us is actually none of our business! Likewise, it's NOT government's business that we were married by a rabbi and, as far as we are concerned, are married in God's eyes. Period.

In fact, what religious marriage has to do with our government is really beyond me. Civil marriage is NOT the same thing as a religious ceremony. Atheists get married all the time. In our system of governance, we ALL deserve equal protection under the law. While my heterosexual brother and his wife have a wide range of protections that followed from their signing a civil marriage contract (and NO religious one at all!), we cannot. That is unfair, unjust, and totally unnecessary.

No one is harmed when all are treated fairly. People ARE harmed when they are kept out of a major civil institution such as marriage.

Time to stop putting up roadblocks to hurt innocent gay couples.
It's mean. It's not civil. And, I believe, it violates a very basic principle of justice.

I hope that Obama's choosing to have an openly gay clergyman give the invocation will not offend God and curse our nation. Those who give rhetoric about God accepting all people as his children is a valid point, albeit there is a big difference between God's approval or acceptance of homosexuals (which is an abomonation by His own declaration) and his love for all his children. This is akin to my accepting and loving my children when they rebel and sin, although I don't condone or approve of their actions. God has made this clear, and the philosophies of man are what are taking hold... I prey that those supporters and believers in homosexuality and homosexual relationships can honestly hold their ground when standing before the judgement seat of God. You have been warned... may God have mercy on your souls, but in the end, you all will be held accountable for your actions, your words, your beliefs and your encouragement and support of an obvious sin in the eyes of God and our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I have said my peace.

Same sex marriage will be the law of the land and all those who fought to keep it from being will be the ones judged poorly in history.

All of you bible quoting fools really, actually believe that God wrote the Bible? Which version did he write? did he edit it too?

Heterosexual white males wrote the bible, not God.

I'm a athiest can care less about all of your religious beliefs. I must say everyone claimming gays are the victoms are sheep following what the meadia tells you. I think our children are the real victoms. What is the out come of changing the morral stance we have all known. Will are children have a better future if gays are alowed to marry or will it encourage them to try things they normaly would'nt. I have no worry if you are living your life and not bothing me. Stop trying to play the sympathy role and stand up for our children.

Jesus loved the marginalized... he said so and forgave them... like the prostitute facing stoning in Jerusalem... What he didn't say was keep doing what you are doing... Go and sin no more... is what he told them...

I am an Obama Supportor in his politics and support same sex rights in the government... but lets hold no illusions on the proper view of Christianity and the response to sin.

This is a very unfortunate choice.

I am a openly gay son of a Catholic household and our God and our Lord, Jesus did not teach us to be hateful. Is there an argument that my "lifestyle" (as if I chose this) is wrong according to the Bible? Sure. However, that does not give anyone the right to malign me in God's name. Judgment will fall upon us all and those of you who are promoting hatred in this country will also be judged despite what goes into the collection baskets.

President-elect Obama is doing what he can. This is still a nation divided on this issue and all of us, gay and straight, need to recognize that like all other civil rights movements, this one is far from over. All I ask on either side is for tolerance of another person's viewpoint. Stop the hate and let our nation grow in peace during this administration.

God bless you all and our beloved country.

Our society is sick!

I can see how this is extremely offensive to Christians and I'm very sad for the load of crap that Christians are constantly force-fed. We as a nation have the utmost respect for others cultures and religions, yet we can't have that same respect for our own people. The last poll stated that eighty percent of the USA considered themselves Christian. Do not Christians have the right to live in peace, practicing their own beliefs? For those of you who misquote the Constitution, the phrase is Freedom OF religion, not freedom FROM religion. The Forefathers never intended an athiest country or government, but one that allowed the various sects of Christianity to practice freely. As for Robinson, how can one take spiritual and religious guidance from someone who broke his own marriage vows? As a married woman, I take my vows seriously. There will always be moments of weakness, but it is the faith and commitment of marriage that is the most beautiful bond that a man and woman can share. And it is sanctioned by God.

Does did guy read the Bible? Here are a few for starters which condems homosexuality. Romans 1:20-32, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Revelation 21:6-8, Leviticus 18:22-24. That is just a few of what the Bible has to say about it. Amazing to me we live in a nation that says we are one nation under God, and we ask God bless America and we try to make a lifestyle acceptable that God has already condemmed in His Word. Psalm 138:2. Who are we kidding. Politicians and lawmakers ought to read Genesis 19 before making decisions on these matters and see how God feels about this lewd bahavior.

When it comes to God's word, it is first of all inerrant and infallible. Despite the fact that a lot of the religious denomination cling onto to certain truths instead of the whole bible as truth. Such is the typical case with

I believe it was wrong of PE Obama to pick this man. Not because of my personal overall belief but because the Episcopal church is already divided over this issue and this will not help. The priest that went to the Diocese was to vote the way their church voted but didn't. If you are Episcoplal from birth you were raised as I was that my bible the King James version says this is wrong. As wrong as all sin is, but also an abomination. I don't interfere with what others do in their home, I pray for god to speak to all sinners as he speaks to me when I sin. But the episcopal church and the group at the diocese did there own thing and then expected everyone to listen to them say it was not a big deal. The church es are seperating and it is a big deal for those of us involved.

It was not right to involve this man on this day. He (Mr. Robinson) will in my opinion answer to god for being a stumbling block for many of faith.

No man is to have sexual relations with another man; God hates that.
Leviticus 18:22 (Good News Bible)

God has not changed!

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Hebrews 13:8 (Good News Bible)

This is a travesty to all things that are held sacred. If this has insight to Mr. Obama's Presidency, may it go by quick and he not get re-elected. Nihilism is alive and well in the Obama white house.

I find it odd that people who support the intrusion of religion into the public arena (using religion to define what the state should consider a valid contract between two individuals) are so intellectually bankrupt as to believe that this intrusion is acceptable so long as it is only their version of religion that is mingling its way into our secular laws.

However, the moment a public platform is given to someone not of the similar faith "persuasion," these are often the same people in an uproar about the audacity of such people having such prominence during such an important public spectacle of US democracy.

Intrusion of religion into the public arena means that ALL flavors of religion are present. Their mothers and fathers should have done a better job of reminding them of the following saying:

Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.

After reading through these comments, I'm stunned. What is one of the basic tenets of the Christian (or most any other) faith? Isn't it "do unto others as you would have them do unto you"? I don't remember seeing any caveats attached to that. Did some get added somewhere, and I missed it? What about "hate the sin, but love the sinner"?

As long as there are those out there who blindly follow whatever is spoon-fed to them, without bothering to think for themselves, this country is screwed. I happily endorse Bishop Robinson's acceptance of the invitiation. It's a small beacon of light, telling me that yes, there is indeed hope.

And yes, I am gay, and no, I am not (any longer) a Christian. Nevertheless, I try to do the right thing, treat others as I would like to be treated, politely, with at least a modicum of decency and respect that any person deserves, not because it's easy (it often isn't), but because it simply is the right thing to do.

So, for a short time at least, let's put aside religious differences, pull together simply as human beings, and work toward a better future, if not for ourselves, then for the following generations. Or is that just way too much to ask? If it is, then the human race should simply be eradicated to make way for a species that might get it right, because if we can't learn to get along, then we have failed mightily.

Randall in Fl – Gene Robinson was ordained while in a heterosexual marriage. He then broke his marriage vows by having an affair (which also happened to be with another man). The bible is very clear on what a marriage is – it is between one man and one woman at the exclusion of all others. Also, any sexual relationship outside of marriage is a sin (homosexual or heterosexual). If you are not a Christian then this does not have to apply to you. Gene Robinson, however, not only claims to be a Christian but is a bishop. He took certain vows which included standing for the truth of scripture. As he is now living in a relationship that is contrary to the very scripture he swore to uphold, he should do the right thing and step down from his position of leadership.

I think there's a PhD thesis to be written just from the comments on this story–tons and tons of data of how religion and politics interact in America, for better or for worse.

Religon is man made. Religon is not found in God's Word. Jesus Christ, the Savior of His people is found in God's Word. This man knows nothing of Jesus and salvation and is as Jesus said walking the broad road to destruction. America is filled with immorality and this is a grand example of how sinful our nation is. Rick Warren is not much better. He is only interested in self and money. He is a disgrace to Christianity. The end can't be far off.

The Bible, many posters have written, condemns homosexuality. However, there is not a verse that condemns lesbianism. I presume female-female relationships are ok. Many more verses condemn the eating of pork than condemn men loving men, so it is my opinion that God is punishing America for its pork-gobbling sinfulness.

Go ye, and do likewise.

Finely. Some progress in the 21st Century.

I'm not sure if anyone will even read this, but here is my opinion however much it matters to you.

I am straight. I believe in God and Jesus. If our man here is a pastor and is gay, then I think he knows the consequences of being so better than many of you commenters.

To attack someone for being gay/lesbian etc. is just like attacking any other kind of sinner. So why gays? Why not those who lie? Oh because that would be YOU. Dont be a hypocrite.

SIN IS SIN. NO MATTER WHAT. GOD WILL KNOW SIN WHEN HE SEES IT. THERE IS NO NEED FOR ARGUMENT.

You accept the people around you even though you know they sin. You accept yourself the same way.

LOVE OTHERS AS YOU DO YOURSELF.

thank you to whoever listened to me. It means a lot.

What an insult to most Christians. This unrepentant, apostate so-called minister is without honor and without shame. He is entitled to his lifestyle, but not as a minister in good standing.

This is a make up call to placate the gay community which were annoyed when Rick Warren was chosen to deliver the invocation. Obama always tries to give all sides a place at the dinner table.

The bible says literally that God hates divorce but I don't see fundamentalist Christians going off on a tirade about the fact that we have a 50% divorce rate in the US.

The bible also speaks deliberately agains sex outside of marriage, but I don't see Christians marching up and down the street with signs that says GOD HATES FORNICATORS.

There is no God, there is no Heaven or Hell. As a gay person, I can say I did research and there are homosexual behaviors in over 300 species of animals. Maybe it's nature's way of limiting population growth, who knows? I know when I went to church I was baptized, prayed numerous times every day, and did whatever I could to try to be "straight". it didn't work. The Bible says if you have faith like a grain of mustard, you can move a mountain, but I couldn't change my sexuality. heterosexual christians believe gay people choose to be gay, i'm saying once and for all, it doesn't work that way.

For those who missed this poorly parsed phrase – "[Robinson] has accepted an invitation issued by the Obama team prior to the announcement of the Rev. Rick Warren’s selection" – MEANING – Obama invited both at the same time, Warren just accepted first, and the media went crazy about it.

For a country without a state religion, there sure seem to be a whole lot of religious invocations involved in the inauguration...

AMERICA was supposed to be the land of opportunity and tolerance...seems Europe is leading in those categories...we still have those who refuse to accept change...STATUS QUO......OLD...get over it and embrace change or lets see...move to the Middle East?

Sick to think about those who speak hate thru God....SICK

GOD BLESS AMERICA...and even those folks who speak from their pulpit!!

JESUS!

The world is DEFinitely coming to an END...There's nothing new under the sun. Everything that happened in Noah's day, is happening again...

Perhaps you are right that Rick Warren does not pray to the same god that you do. But, perhaps, it is not Rick Warren who is praying to a false god.

Obama had to do somthing to make others happy. Now Gay's wont be so upset with him.

By this pick, Obama is choosing to be religiously tolerant by accepting anybody no matter who they are. Everyone is made by the same God in my opinion: gays, straight people, Native American people, men, women, children, and so on. God, in my opinion, views everyone the same no matter who they are or if they make mistakes in their lives. Only God can judge us on the inside, not us. Everyone needs to realize that. Obama is just following his word that he will be everyones' president.

People twist what Jesus said about sin. John 8:34: Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. 8:46: Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? 8:43: Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. 8:44: Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. 8:47: He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.
Paul said in 2 Timothy 3:16: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
The Bible judges us. God told us how to live and we have one of two choices either do what He says or do what you want. God blesses us when we do what he says and punishes us when we don't obey and do what we want. That rule applies to those people who want same sex marriages, as well as murderers etc too. Obama is not trying to please God, he's trying to keep his word he made to man. If Obama was trying to please God he wouldn't have ran for election in the first place. Obama thinks he can make changes for the better for all people. Only God can do that. But man will keep trying to until God steps in and rules the entire world through His Government and abolishes man's government for good.
Jesus and Paul lost disciples to the world. John 6:66: From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 6:67: Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 2 Timothy 4:10: For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.

boo hoo

In Deuteronomy, we all learned that mixing fabrics is an abomination, I demand that no people wearing wool-blend socks be permitted at the inauguration!

I don't understand what book Mr. Robinson preaches from. I believe the Bible to be the Word of God. Absolute Truth. My truth and your truth are relative but Truth itself cannot be. It seems that's it's easier for him to fit his life, or lifestyle, into the bible rather than fitting the bible into his life. God is very clear. He doesn't hate homosexuals, just the homosexual act. He is leading so many astray and they seem blinded to that fact. The majority of Christians who speak out against homosexuals are doing it out of love, not hate. He needs to ask himself who's truth he really believes because it's not God's Truth.

God loves us all. We all should leave things to Him to do the final judging.
We are all to love each other as we love ourselfs. I myself do not believe homsexuality is right, but it is not right for me to show hatred towards others.
Besides Obama had to do somthing to leval out descrepancies.
Now gay's arent so upset at him.

As Dick Cheney would say,SO!Im more interested in taxing the churchs and using the trillions they make to help our deficit.

Invite Rev Wright if he want to. What ever words they may say have no meaning if the listner chooses not to take them to heart.

Personally, I don't care if they chose a Fundamentalist from some conclave in the wilds of Utah.

We have not national religion and we need not national preachers.

Randall from Fl Gene Robinson took his ordination vows while still in a heterosexual marriage. He then broke his wedding vows by having an affair (which happened to be with another male). The bible clearly says that a marriage is between one man and one woman. Any sexual relationship outside of marriage is a sin. Since a homosexual marriage cannot be acknowledged as a Christian marriage then a bishop in a Christian church is in an openly sinful relationship and as such – biblically – is not allowed to be a leader. No matter what someone outside the church thinks of this – Gene Robinson is a bishop in the church and, as a leader, is expected to uphold Christian standards. If he chooses to disregard the Holy Scriptures he has vowed to uphold, then he should step down.

Obama is a man of his word. AMEN!

Ooh, look, a bishop who isn't afraid to be who he is...let the cries of "disgusting," "abomination," and "sodomite" begin from the religious lunatics.

Obama is God sent!

CNN: "Openly gay bishop"

Is this your only description of the Bishop? Why do we not see... "Straight Rick Warren" or "Heterosexual so&so."
Do we really need these labels anymore?

Unfortunately, 99% of Christians and pastors misinterprete and misquote scriptures out of context. They twist it to mean what they want it to say. I was trained in fundamentalist theology and I see the misuse of scripture daily. Most Christians don't know how to read the Bible, even if they can read. If we must believe that homosexuality is a sin, then we must believe in slavery. You can't choose one over the other. If you take a scripture out of context and make it a rule, you must then live by the other scriptures as a rule, no matter how harsh. Christians and pastors trained as evangelicals and fundamentalists have to practice active denial if they want to use scriptures out of context. Basically, it's a serious problem that the evangelical church and its theologians don't want you to know about. The secret is that twisting scripture is a MUST and a regular practice in evangelical churches today. The CHURCH has suffered with this problem for decades, ever since the faith healers came on TV.

Quoting a scripture verse or two especially out of context is stupid. You think it's the trump card, but it's not. It's a thoughtless act. Instead, use the brains God gave you.

i wonder if obama has decided if he will come out of the closet this term or he will CHOOSE TO ABORT the idea for now. lol

Barak Obama needs to hold the line against special interests. I'm all for same-sex marriage – but he should have just stuck with Rev. Warren and said 'that's it'. This just shows he's not change; just more of the same politics-as-usual. You just can't please everyone so stop trying.

Wonderful! We think he is smart and will make an excellent president. After all, we had 8 years of a village idiot!

It's funny how all these so called have removed christ from the throne and appointed themselves. If any have of you had a light and allowed it to shine as christ commanded without all self rightous hate, maybe just maybe this gay minister would have seen the christ that's suppose to be in you. What a joke many of you don't even know christ and should spend sometime working out your own souls salvation.
God Bless You.

Why can't Christians be like Jesus? Their comments here are judgmental, hateful and bigoted. If Obama selects a muslim, atheist, lesbian, disabled, or right-wing fundamentalist, it's his business. USA is not a Christian nation and never has been. Christians, stop trying to make it one. USA is home to all Americans not just those who believe as you do.

America is torn apart yet again.

there are two forces in society which do not pay taxes, organised crime and religion. Both do irreparable damage to society. Both also wage war on society, the former by way of drugs, gang warfare and all manner of human depravity that follows.

In the case of religion the wars they wage begin nationally then they cross borders pitting their blind followers against the equally blind followers of the other faith which of course is wrong and which like it is serving the same god. A god I might add that was manmade.

Keep religious ignorance and intolerance, there's a redundancy, out of politics.

Again, both organised crime and religion do more damage to society than do any other force in society. it is high time that the real war on terror was fought against the real terror, religion and organised crime within our midst as they do more evil than not.

no one was voting for a religious head of state on november 4th 2008 so where exactly do religious wingnuts have either a voice or right in matters of state.

Prop 8 was Anita Bryant all over again, when will these ill-bred fools shut up and be made to pay taxes like everyone else. Good god let Gays marry, it leads to the industry of gay divorce, can't have enough lawyers now can we? And as is fairly obvious let them be miserable like the rest of us married sods.

Rabidly, flagrantly, uncompromisingly against the evils of organised crime and religion...

Have you noticed that Rick Warren isn't saying derogatory things or holding ugly protests over the inclusion of Robinson? Interesting. I think I'd rather pray to his God than to the one Robinson says he is praying to!

Need to pray for this deranged pitiful human being no doubt.

This Obama giving into pressure. I voted for Obama but I have to say it dissapointing. He seems make his decisions according to the screams of the mob instead of his mind.

Why can't gay's and lesbians marry? What is it any of their business, what nerve, those religious pedofile's have no room to talk. The influence these pedofile's have on the rest of our decent fair society is mindboggling. Gay's and lesbians hurt no one, priests hurt and brainwash children (and racist prejudice scum rednecks), so deserve's these basic rights more? Proposition 8 will be a symbol of backwards ideology soon enough, hopefully sooner than later. Just as segregation was.

My GOD created me the way I am – gay. It is not a choice. How many of you decided to be heterosexual? Those of you that keep quoting the Bible should stop picking and choosing what you think the word of God is. The Bible was written by men. It has been translated and put together in different eras by different people. I don't care what your beliefs in God are but stop trying to force your beliefs on my community and my church. And by the way, marriage is a CIVIL RIGHT not a God ordained right. Gay people have families and children too. We also have "Family Values". Marriage as we know it today has only existed for a few hundred years. Stop the hate.

I'm afraid that sometime in the near future we are going to rediscover why the ancients wisely cautioned against homosexuality. When one moral domino falls (homosexuality), it knocks over the next moral domino (pedophilia). I really can't imagine what domino would come next in line after that. Moses wisely drew a moral line so that the people would not fall into moral and emotional chaos. We have secular laws so that we maintian an orderly society. Moral laws exist for the same reason.

Homosexuality is a sin. The church is for all sinners to receive salvation and GOD's forgiveness of sin. Noboday on earth is sin free, but a minister, pastor and priest is to walk "the best they can" as an example for all to witness and emulate. How can a 'gay" sinner openly declare and continue sinning from the pulpit. As a member of Rick Warrens church, I support him and his views. It takes a strong man to stand up to the sin of this world. He does. I'm a sinner and confess them to only GOD. Obama (didnt vote for him, but support him) has made a poorp choice to have a "gay priest" participate in his ceremonies. He should be stronger than to cave into the "open" sins of the world.

GOD Bless the USA and President Obama

Me in FL...actually thie scriptures do state that a man should not lay down with another man. So, according to most Christians, if the writers in the New Testament state that an act should not be done and one does it anyway...that is a sin. Much as a married heterosexual male looking upon another woman than his wife in lust is a sin. Or judging others is a sin. We all sin. The beautiful thing about the gospel of Jesus Christ is that we can change.

I think if that Obama wants this openly gay Reverend to give a seron or pray is fine because that is Obama's decision an choice in which we are all entitled. Now whether or not acting upon homesexual urges is a sin is another question that can be answered in the scriptures.

what is REALLY unfortunate is having Robinson delivering anything in GOD's name; living an ABOMINATION before GOD, and trying to justify it and make it right. i don't care if everybody in the world say's that homosexuality is right ,it's still wrong. i am not a member of Rick Warren's church, i don;t know anything about him but what I've seen on cnn. I do know right from wrong, and just because everyone is doing it; still does not make it right! Robinson you better try and find out what the wages of sin are? GOD will not be mocked! I love OBAMA, voted for him, am going to his inauguration, but President Obama, Rick Warren, and this Robinson are not above GOD's word!

I am not an American citizen. It's surprising that a progressive nation like US cannot keep religion and state separate. Why doesn't Obama also invite a Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu and a Jewish priest? Shouldn't the government be secular. It's ridiculous that the US is no different from the Islamic countries such as Saudi Arabia or Pakistan.

It seems that we are following ancient Israel's example. In ancient Israel, there were homosexuals and there were people who worshipped different gods. These individuals wanted their civil rights in Hebrew society, and they wanted to be recognized as legitimate.

GOD sent prophets to teach the people to shun homosexuality and to shun the worship of other gods. However, the people of Israel laughed at the prophets, threatened them, and killed some of them.

Today, many Americans scoff at those preachers who tell them that homosexuality is sin, and that we should worship only one GOD – and that is the GOD of the Bible. It's ancient Israel all over again!

How many times do we have to study the same lesson over and over again until we finally get it right? Homosexuality is a very serious problem. We need to see homosexuality through Biblical eyes.

My prayer is that GOD will have mercy on the United States. LORD, please turn the American people from their own stupidity and wickedness!

Ok, I want to k now why racist crap such as the things TCM posts CONSTANTLY gets posted all the time, but mine are always awaiting moderation!

As for this topic, some of you need to seek psychiatric help. You're seriously sitting here calling this man a "satanist" and a demon? What is WRONG w. you?? Urban Ink? You're comparing being gay to being a sex offender? Not even close to being the same thing. We're talking about two consenting adults here.
You people are the biggest bunch of judgemental hypocrites I've ever "seen" in my entire life. Christianity is about love, right? Could have fooled me. You've all obviously been brainwashed; I feel sorry for you.

Honestly I can't believe how brainwashed some of the religious nuts are. Imagine where we would be if religion was still the all end all, there would be no science, no cure's, no nothing. I hate those child molesting bastards and their grip on people's freedoms and how they manage to brainwash so many idiots.

while you guys cliam to know what God wants...you seem to overlook what he really says...its not your place to judge..it is his..God made gay people also and it will be he who makes the final call. Clinging to to fabels written in a book is why this world is in crisis. The God I know loves all people...even the ones he made gay..I would rather know a man who loes another man than a hypocrite who spews hate in the name of the Lord.

I voted for Obama, and I am appalled at his poor judgement in doing this! This is an abomination to God. Obama is pandering to the gays. Why? He already won. He doesn't need them. He NEEDS God to blesss him as he takes his oath of office with his hand on the Holy Bible. I know Abe Lincoln would not approve...

It is clear to me that so many of you have not read the book by our new president. If you had you would not be the least bit surprised by what he is doing. Most especially, the person who implied that Obama was being inconsistent. Barack Obama is being exactly who he portrayed himself to be in his 2005 "Audacity of Hope". I am absolutely delighted with the way he is consistently being the inclusive human being that he is in spite of all the outcry. You want to know where his head is- read his words-not somebody else's interpretation of what they think his actions mean. Haters, keep hating. It's what ignorance does. Obama continues to shame you all. He is the epitomy of what the American spirit and true Christian spirit is supposed to be. I am immensely proud of his vision.

dustin, you are brilliant.

Catholics and religious zealots are pathetic. Get off of your high horses and begin to realize that, because you continue to think in a backwards and asinine manner, you're a dying breed. The Bible also says to treat others as you would have them treat you. By that rule, you should be as shamed and ridiculed for your disgusting and bigoted actions as the LGBT community is for its humanity. Keep waiting for your pie in the sky.

Allowing an openly gay Episcopal bishop to deliver the invocation by the Obama team to simply please a noisy 2% of the population will displease the majority with grave although usually quiet reactions or consequences. I think the Obama team is making a mistake on this one.

Open your eyes and ears folks, why would thei gay man, I won't call him and preacher or bishop because that denotes a man speaking for God. this man is not a Godly man and of coures he will speak against a minister like Rick Warren. Actually I am sure Rick Warren intimidates him becasue RTick Waren stands for God and This slim ball, gay does not even know God, he is just fooling other peole and most of all fooling himself. I for one will skip that part of the innaugaration. I do not listen to someone who speaks of God from one side of his mouth and then go an commint sodomy with another homosexualk. Is that someone we what to hear begin our new president off with? Not me.

Don't allow those sick people to generalize a entire nation.For them became a business to be gay.those who are happend but i can't believe they are that many.now they are CEO,Preachers,every level .because of Democrats Agenda.We need many to treat this sick people not encurage.The good news they can't breath kids.They like to adopt kids.You kidding me to let those people to adopt.....

I believe this really shouldn't be a big deal.

Christians kill me with the "homosexuality is a sin" but then don't realize the hundreds of other things that's mention as a sin

Funny how people always say its "unnatural" but forget to realize that animals are found to be homosexual also.

idiots
God people are so stupid

I do not hate gays. However, I do not agree with their lifestyle.
They have their place in the church but certainly not in the pulpit.
The Bible is very clear about its stance on homosexuality.
It is also gives a clear description of the anti-Christ
which should be of concern to everyone regardless
of your religious denomination. Americans are
looking for financial relief after a failed Administration.
However, they are in for more than they could
possibly bargain. The Truth will reveal itself in time.
May God, Alah, Jehoviah, our Supreme Being help us all!

TCM- I am a lifelong Episcopalian. The founding fathers were primarily Episcopalian.

I will follow my last comment up by saying that just because he is gay does not mean that we cannot love him. Choosing to live a homosexual lifestyle is living in sin though and we despise the sinfulness, not the person. It is however completely unbiblical to have an ordained homosexual clergyman. That contradicts God's word and there is no way in which a person can deny that. A man of God should live by the Word of God.

Do red flags pop up when I write comments or does it really take that long to moderate a comment from 3:00pm.

I think Charles comment is the only one that really makes any sense or has any real relevance......

"Regarding Robinson's statement, “It's about this particular venue and the role that he has in praying for all of America, and I'm just not sure he'd pray to God the same way I would,” it is important to remember, Warren cares about gay persons just as much as Robinson does. He simply has a different belief system. His prayers to God would reflect caring and inclusion."

well final judgement... you are quite the imaginative person. question... if god loves everyone, why are gays left out? How would he love a bigot like you?

BC

I agree with you, PE Obama is doing the right thing including everyone and yes, the religious wackos are going BANANAS. There are comments here that look like they came from "The Exorcist"!!!! LOL

Good job Obama. Show the Republican 'Christians' how to be a real Christian and include ALL of God's people.

If any gay or lesbian complains about this act, just tell them to vote Republican next time- that's where they'll find tolerance and acceptance... not!!!

what all of you are forgetting is that in todays world, homosexuality is not a religious or governmental issue. it is not for any of us to judge homosexuals because we all live our own lives. if homosexuals want to get married, let them get married; how would that affect you personally? if President-Elect Obama wishes to have an openly gay preacher deliver the invocation, why not? isnt the word of "the lord" the same no matter who delivers it? and besides, for all of you against it, if you took the bible, and god and jesus out of your arguments, where would you be? what would you say? that it's immoral? morality is subjective, and you'd only be shoving your own beliefs down others' throats as a result

I was teached as a kid that God loves everyone and if is so, why to suppose God/Jesus believers say so otherwise?

I been married to my husband of nine years for over six months now and we are blessed by God in our own eyes with happiness. Is not ok for us to be happy but is ok for the ones that can married without any judgement to get a divorce, commit adultery, get married out of convinience or arranged, now who is a HYPOCRATE and this is not what was writted in the Bible, was it?

Having Rick Warren at the inagural is a disgrace to to God and the fact that he preaches HATE is not a family value word.

No one can tell us who should we love, either if your gay or straight, is up to the God our all mighty to judge us on judgement day, not an stupid ignorant loveless human being telling us we can or not.

God Loves Everyone, like it or not!!!

A California couple in love and their marriage in God's eye's only gets stronger.

Using which bible?

truthis> Ah, you're wrong, my friend. It fits evolution perfectly. A species needs some way to control its reproduction or it will breed until there are no natural resources....we've pretty much reached that point, wouldn't you say? And we have no natural predators.
Homosexuality is evolution's way of saying, "Enough w. the breeding, already!"

IF A MAN GAINS THE WHOLE WORLD, AND LOSES HIS SOUL, WHAT WOULD HE GIVE IN EXCHANGE FOR HIS SOUL?
MAN, I AM JUST SO OFFENDED AT THIS. I AM NO LONGER PROUD OF THIS NATION BUT I AM PROUD OF THE GOD FEARING, BIBLE READING CHRISTIANS. COME ON CHRISTIANS, LET US STAND TOGETHER AND GIVE COUNT, JESUS CHRIST IS COMING SOON. IT WON'T BE LONG NOW. PRAISE GOD! I AM READY TO MEET HIM IN PEACE, HOW ABOUT YOU?

Get over yourself, people. You are no better than any gay person just because you think being homosexual is wrong. Nobody cares about your thoughts.

Obama knows what it is like to be a minority, so he is trying to involve everybody in his historic inauguration. He's said that he has always been friends with "misfits" and "minorities." Much like Jesus, no? So stop judging and live and let live, and most importantly get a life!

Dustin, you are the idiot !!

Politically, the United States is religiously neutral.
The majority of the people hold to a Christian world view and so politial events often reflect that orientation. There are a variety of theological viewpoints among those who call themselves Christian. Warren holds to a conservative understanding of the Old and New Testaments, Robinson has rejected many of those teachings, with specific reference to Homosexuality.
The scriptural prohibition against homosexuality is primarily for those who are in the Christian (and Jewish) Church. Christians by definition will obey the teachings of Jesus. Non Christians are not bound by the ethical standards of the Old and New Testament, though they recognize their ethical values. The scriptures warn that those who practice homosexualtiy (as well as other sexual sins) have violated the created relationship between male and female and will not enter heaven even if it is a bishop in the Christian community. They are outside of the Kingdom of God.
It is an affront to Christians to have a homosexual represent himself as a Christian when he obviously does not obey the teaching of Jesus the Christ.
However, since this is not a theological gathering, we can expect various views to be expressed. We may not like it, but that is what it means to be an American. I will fight for the freedom of speech for someone with whom I disagree.

Rom 1:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.

If there is a true "bigot" in this story, it is "Bishop" Robinson. This man left wife and child - and tore apart the Episcopal Church - all over his sexual proclivities. He is intolerant of men like Warren - or the Catholic Church - both of which hold rational, theological, and deeply-formed philosophical viewpoints against his so-called "lifestyle." Robinson is a menace, and Christians are right to resent the presence of such a coward. How far the nation has fallen!

@John
Yes Jesus did, but never forced the government or anyone who didn't want to. We are talking about the government right?

We could avoid all this if we would just take prayer out of the equation. I voted for a president, not a religious leader. I don't need the battle of the religions, and as for marriage, why should gay people be any more happy than the rest of us – let them marry!

The religious right is spitting out their Romans and Leviticus and other b.s. I LOVE IT!!

Except those crazy religious nuts own GUNS!!!! And Obama IS black. And Robinson IS gay. And I'm sure there will be a JEW or two on the podium!

I have a large number of very strongly held views, and would readily be labelled (I won't say how) by many of those who post here. But I also think this is a wonderful experiment in democracy – the bringing together of divergent and contradictory views under the same much larger banner. Ultimately, it may not work, but American democracy is again showing its capacity to evolve and change. Let's embrace the experiment.

To John

You are right. Our politicians are 10% Christians and 90% politicians when you put them right next to Mother Theresa.

God is Holy and He had asked us to be Holy. To stand before the greatest source of light of love, feel his energy and power, will definitely make ONE tremble.

who cares .... let him pray!

@ Bart Kofoed,

Are you THE Bart Kofoed? If so, can we get you on an episode of "where are they now?"

Awesome.

And to the geniuses quoting Leviticus: when was the last time you shunned someone for looking at their horoscope, or put someone to death for cursing their mother and/or father? It's awfully handy to follow a religious doctrine that lets you choose who to hate on the basis of convenience. I wish I had that sort of conviction.

You all should watch the documentary on the EXORCIST. I saw it on the History Channel and it was very interesting. Satan possessed the little boy and it was the Catholic priest that was able to exorcise Satan out of the boy, of course, after months of rituals. God SENT michelangelo to SPEAK to Satan before he left the boy. The boy had two voices. One of the prince of darkness and one of Michelangelo. It was an incredible story. When Satan left the boy, they could hear a LOUD cannon explosion, yet, they went outside and there wasnt anything wrong with the buildings or surroundings.

It's just AMAZING... God loves sinners so just repent

ME IN FL: Your religion says God abolishes homosexuality" really???? First of all you are not talking for yourself, you are saying "your religion" meaning you belief what your religion ( minister or priest) says. God abolishes homosexuality?? Then, if he does why he created gays?? Are they not part of God's creation??? Last time I read the Bible we are all creatures of God's creation!!!
______________________________________________________
Yes, I agree that God made us all but you find me in His Word, the Bible, where it says He made people homosexuels then and only then will I believe it. No where in the BIble does it say that, all it says is that he made man for woman and woman for man and that also applies for only marriage. It does say that men are not to have sex with other men and women are not to have sex with other women. That is the main reason He destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah! Read it for yourself, it starts in Genesis chapter 19. For all of you that are taking things out of context get the truth of the Bible and quit just taking out what part you like. The truth will hurt sometimes but it will also set you free. That is in the Bible also.

If everything mentioned in the bible were viewed as the abomination that Homosexuality is viewed as, then SuperBowl sunday wouldn't exist, as touching the skin of a dead pig is also an abomination ... as is getting your hair cut ... as is wearing clothing of mixed textiles ... as is a woman preparing food while she's on her period ... but all of the things I just mentioned aren't "relevant in modern times" ...

... nevermind that in the story of Sodom and Gammorah, Lot offers up his VIRGIN DAUGHTERS TO BE RAPED! Geez.

Follow the Bible exactly how it was written, but FOLLOW IT! Not just the parts of it that you want to – FOLLOW THE WHOLE THING!

It sickens me to know that the people of this country have such disdain for gay people that they would actually strip them of their rights ...

... If you don't like gay marriage, fine, don't marry a gay ... but stay the hell out of my relationship.

Bishop Robinson is a bishop in my church, and I love and respect him..he is a Godly person, filled with truth and grace. Blessings to him and to President Obama.

And I remind all of you still quoting the Old Testament at will that Jesus instructs us to 'love one another as I love you". Imagine a world that focused on that command, and how much closed it would be to the Kingdom of Heaven. Consider also removing the log in your own eye before you seek out the splinter in mine.

shalom.

This is great news because Obama is a man of his word. He said he wanted inclusiveness. I respect that.

Certainly, the religious wackos are going BANANAS!!!!!

Thats great news. I was very disappointed at Obama that he chose Rick Warren, but that stain is now diminished now that he selected an openly gay priest. I am still not thrilled to see a presence of the christian right wing at the ceremony, but at least now everyone is included.

I think there should be separation of religiosity and state. Church should
really play no role at the inauguration. This is not crowning, but a
start of the new era in politics, which has nothing to do with religiosity.
Hopefully we will see a return to the secular state in near future.

God did not create homosexuals, lesbians, etc., it is from the wickedness of mans (and womans) heart that all evil thought and intention comes from.

He created them male and female, He was pleased!
then sin entered in.......

Anti-Gay Christians....please remember that two generations ago, religion was used as a basis for keeping interracial couples from getting "married" (see Loving vs. Virginia).

Marriage is a LEGAL definition, in addition to the religious definition (as boered1 pointed out). In this country, you can't deny any minority their rights just because your religious beliefs say otherwise.

The Republicans have misused Religion in such a brutal, ugly way. It's time to get Religion back to where Jesus wanted it. Jesus hung out with the poor, the prostitutes and the sinners, not the fat-cat CEO-type money changers.

My praise to Obama for being inclusive.

Unfortunately, being gay just does not fit. It does not fit the Bible. It does not fit evolution/natural selection. It just is not natural. Dress it up, try to force it on folks using "intelligencia", universities, or even demeaning equal rights laws for sexual preferences. Still, it does not fit.

TEB,

Your god is fake and the bible is ambigous, people use it as a crutch to further their agendas.

That is the truth of the world, and your way of thinking is fadeing fast, as it should.

I don't mind the fact he's gay, but I don't understand why they caved into the pressure from such a small minority to ditch Rick Warren. Couldn't they have each given a statement? I just think it was handled poorly. I mean it's like one extreme to the other.

Right on Obama! Finally someone who gets it.

How can equality be bad for anyone? This is a great step forward for humanity.

Let's see. Obama opposes gay marriage.
Rick Warren opposes gay marriage.
Left goes apoplectic when Warren invited.
Rev. Gene Robinson (gay priest) supports gay marriage.
Left response is ?
Maybe it is just Obamas choice, not ours.

Again and again, the Crazy Christians are out judging...... Used to be one 'till I realized how absolutely hateful and hippocritical most of them are.... especially the preachers and priests..... they pick and choose what parts of the bible (not capitalized on purpose) they want to believe and teach to others (or force on others). This country was not founded on Christian values but freedom of religion.... Christians need to remember that.... They harbor too much hate. I urge people....love Jesus but drop out of the misguided "club" known by the name of "Christianity". I doubt Jesus would even want to be a member anymore...

9Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders 10nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 11And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

1 Corinthians 6:8-10

TCM wrote: Too much of this catering crap….

You're right, we shouldn't be catering to all these superstitious nut bars. I'm glad we agree. If it were up to us, all this hoodoo religious ritual would be out the door. Even so, I think it would be polite to just shut up and humor the President-elect on this one. It's his party, after all.

So if you oppose homosexuality you are a bigot. If you support homosexuality you are inclusive. Yeah...no bias there.

This issue will get resolved right after Roe v. Wade.

How gay is he? I mean if we are going to go with a gay guy, we need to go super gay. That would be a good balance.

VirginiaforObama,
With our due respect, not everyone are God Children. Yes God is the creator of everyone. But only those who follow God commandments are call God Children. One more point, real Christians are not hateful, because we are save by Grace. Meaning that we were as sinful as anyone else, however the Grace of God redeemed us. That is what separate us for the rest of the world. Not only homosexual is a sin, lying, adultery, fornication, incest, coveteousnes, and many others that I do not have time to put down are also sin. The irony of this all debacle is that I hear so many people said my God this, my God that, but never mention the God of Righteousness, The God of Wrath, The God who destroyed all lofty ideas, The God who destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, The God of Jacob, Moses and Abraham. Now I often heard atheist only stupid people believe in God. But the irony is that only foolish people believes out of nothing something evolve. Rather than being ignorant, please open a bible and discover the true.
With the Love God

People get over it. There are other views out there beside your own. Gay people are here, they are tax paying Americans and that, as they say, is that. Fascinate yourselves with something else.

I find it shocking that they even use a Bible at these inaugurations. They are not religious events anyway. Romans 1:23: And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.1:24: Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:1:25: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.1:26: For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 1:27: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 1:28: And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient. Genesis 1:28: And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth. Only man and woman can multiply. Obama just trying to be leader of USA not God's people but all people.

BFD, Obama. Where are we represented on Inauguration Day? You asked for our support, now we ask for yours. Remember, separate but equal doesn't fly anymore.

Those who invoke the Bible really ought to read it closer. Make sure you apply ALL of those Leviticus laws to EVERYONE, not just those you think pertain to homosexuals.

Well at least I am glad that Mr. Robinson is not a real Bishop and never was a real priest. Such a thing would REALLY be a travesty now wouldn't it.

When the Church in England split from the Catholic Church they changed the Rite of Ordination invalidating the Rite and the ordinations of all. All those who claim to be a bishop or priest in the "Episcopal church", are invalid anyway.

However I am saddened that those who even call themselves "Christian" support gay marriage and "clergy" who openly have sexual relations with those not their wives (those who are permitted to be ordained who are already married – NEVER in Christian history has the clergy EVER been allowed to marry!)

Ken

@ Vincent Petrosina

Nice note ! I agree with you 100%.
I do not understand people who think that they can speak for God. God will be the judge and I say let him do just that. We are not put here on this earth to judge others. In fact, we had better all start try living with each other. No matter what are beliefs and life style we all need each other.

PE Obama is trying to please everyone and he has a right to do that. Stop being so critical and start trying to be positive and help this man. He really needs all of us to help with the problems he has inherited.

For those selectively quoting the Bible, here's some more selective quotes but admittedly and without the hypocrisy.

– Romans 14:12-13 “So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way.”
– Matthew 7:12 “Treat others as you want them to treat you. This is what the Law and the Prophets are all about.”

Regarding Robinson's statement, “It's about this particular venue and the role that he has in praying for all of America, and I'm just not sure he'd pray to God the same way I would,” it is important to remember, Warren cares about gay persons just as much as Robinson does. He simply has a different belief system. His prayers to God would reflect caring and inclusion.

What Obama is doing gives us all hope for inclusion. I hope Bishop Robinson tries to respond to his fellow man like our new president is doing. It doesn't come across well to hear a man of God belittle another man of God.

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

The tickets are and always have been free if some scaplers decide to sell them that's another thing. And just because a few people can afford to buy the tickets it does not mean the economy is not bad. Your logic is beyond measure.

What's wrong with including divergent interests in the inaugural?

You don't have to like Bishop Robinson to respect Obama's right to give him a place in the inaugural. Same thing goes for Pastor Warren. It's not our place to judge either of them. I do not expect either of these men to do anything unsuitable during the events.

I know this is a place for posting opinions, but too much of what's posted here is sheer venom. Anyone who considers this Christian behavior dropped out of Sunday school.

Separation of Church and State means just that – keep them separate. If you want moral guidance, go to your church. If you want the Constitution enforced look to the Gov't. PLEASE never confuse the two.

Do we want an American Taliban running around stoning people for eating pork? or working on Sunday? What punishment do we give those that participate in pre-marital sex? Hrm....maybe we should all just ignore the ones we don't agree on or committed ourselves? Or let's ask Congress to enforce them all on every religion.

I can't believe Obama is allowing an openly gay "preacher" to pray at his innauguration....
God forbids homosexuality in the Bible..
Maybe the minister will accept Christ and Rick Warren can pray the sinner's prayer with him.
I pray for revival in this nation! Maybe God designed this selection of people for Him to do a mighty work of revival. True, the gay minister is a joke, but God can turn a joke into a servant of His..Look at how mean and bad the apostle Paul was before his conversion!!

This is brilliant news and a brilliant win for gay rights. Even before Obama has taken office you can tell the sharp contrast between him and Bush. I have noticed I am reacting so happilly to the news coming out of Washington, and this is great. I just can't wait for Obama to take office next week.

Obama is clueless. Inviting a token gay priest doesn't eliminate the fact that his inauguration is giving legitimacy to bigotry. As TIME Magazine said, Obama has proven himself to be a very tolerant, very rational sounding bigot.

Openly gay and MORTIFIED by this obvious attempt at placating the LGBT community. BO, when you dismissed the legitimate hurt and anger the LGBT community is feeling over your selection of Rick Warren, you essentially threw us under the bus.

You proclaimed a "fierce" support of gay rights - without a SINGLE act on which to base such a claim.

Now, you just look like spineless. Now, you reveal that you STILL don't understand the points we've been trying to make. Now, you've insulted us a second time, by thinking this obvious placation will do the trick.

I'm not buying. I want my vote and my hope back.

He is a demon in a man's body. Everyone with eyes open can see this. Don't pay attention to the godless, the ground moves beneath them when they walk. This is just another sign that we are closer to the end. I have no pity left in me for those who stand for foolish immorality against their own conscience. Don't hate them, pray for them. Good luck all.

This is truly wonderful.......He is really trying to be inclusive; though the "excluders" are peeved. As has been mentioned before: 1. Jesus never spoke anti-gay. 2. Leviticus calls homosexuality an abomination, and 3. Later Leviticus calls shellfish another abomination.

Sounds McCainish, no? "Bomb, Bomb, Bomb, Bomb abomination"

What's Sarah think? What's to happen to the Alaskan lobster trade if she follows the Good Book on shellfish????

To Vincent Petrosino,

It is nice to see that there are still people among us with high intellectual capacity as yourself. Your comments are true and lovely.

The problem is that the Bible is subject to interpretation and not everyone here has the capacity to read it and draw their own conclusions without having a minister or priest telling them what and how to think.

*******************************************************************************
Jen

** January 12th, 2009 3:06 pm ET

"In my life, nothing against gays as its their choice and life, but my religion says God abolishes homosexuality. "
***************************************************************************
Your religion says God abolishes homosexuality" really???? First of all you are not talking for yourself, you are saying "your religion" meaning you belief what your religion ( minister or priest) says. God abolishes homosexuality?? Then, if he does why he created gays?? Are they not part of God's creation??? Last time I read the Bible we are all creatures of God's creation!!!

I am straight and I really hate to see how so called "CHRISTIANS" descriminate against gay people hiding behind their religion.

My God is a God of love and does not discriminate against his children, and my religion can tell me whatever it wants, but I have been given by that same God ,the right and the sense to make my own decisions and draw my own conclusions. It do not need a minister nor a priest to tell me how to think!!

President Elect Obama will be president of all Americans regardless of faith. To include even those he may not agree with is refreshing.

Finally a president with no prejudices. What a breath of fresh air.

VirginiaforObama,
With our due respect, not everyone are God Children. Yes God is the creator of everyone. But only those who follow God commandments are call God Children. One more point, real Christians are not hateful, because we are save from Grace. Meaning that we were as sinful as anyone else, however the Grace of God redeemed us. That is what separate us for the rest of the world. Not only homosexual is a sin, lying, adultery, fornication, incest, coveteousnes, and many others that I do not have time to put down are also sin.
With the Love God

Hmm,

Why do all these people think Prop 8 is about equal rights? It's not. It's about homosexuals thinking they should be able to "marry" those of the same sex, something that is completely unnatural. I mean, if you think about it, it's quite simple. A man's organ and a female's organ together causes reproduction, correct? Does that seem natural? Wouldn't whoever created us have designed it this way? A man's organ and a man's organ do not cause reproduction, therefore it must not be natural. What's, next, are we to allow people to legally engage in activities with their pets? Is beastiality about equals rights as well? And I will never understand how an institution that calls itself a church would allow an openly gay bishop. I guess they're saying that it's okay to pick and choose which of God's commands we will follow.

I'm ready to be judged, to stand before the God of the universe to give account of my life. Today, tomorrow and the next.

One cannot claim to be a Christian, a follower of Christ, if he insists on persisting in sin. Didn't Christ died on a cross to forgive sin? Yes, and He rose from the grave that we might have new life. And this life begins when we receive Christ. Should I go on sinning because I can be forgiven? By no means! It's simply illogical. If one does, like Gene Robinson, he doesn't follow Christ, but himself. He serves the flesh, not the Lord.

And for those who hope to advise, admonish, condemn, malign, or slander Christians who so obviously to you seem ill-informed of their own book or faith, piss off.

boered1 January 12th, 2009 2:14 pm ET

ga. January 12th, 2009 1:27 pm ET

in Leviticus chapter 20, verse 13, GOD CALLS THIS LIFE STYLE AN ABOMINATION, God will be your judge just like he will all of us. God Bless America
___________________________________________________

so how was your Easter ham? in the same chapter eating pig is also called an abomination. I know like most members of the radical right you ignore the parts of the bible you do not agree with and that is OK.

And all food was stated to be clean in the New Testament by Jesus as the Law was stated not to be the way to Heaven but Christ himself is. Typical liberal "intellect" you have no idea what you are actually talking about, but bandy about half of the story as fact. Save your venom for something you might know all of the facts about, if there is anything.

It's amazing how lightly we throw around the word "bigot" these days. It is usually aimed at Christians because they believe something and are willing to stand up for it. Bigotry is intolerance for those who have different beliefs. Bigotry is not a difference of opinion. Avoiding bigotry does not require one to jettison all beliefs and accept all behavior. Bigotry is when you are intolerant of others for not agreeing with you. I see a lot of this on both sides. Yes, both sides!

It is interesting when members of the gay community – in an intolerant way – accuse others ("Christians") of being bigots because they don't agree with gays. That is textbook bigotry and is displayed in the same breath as they are accusing others of being bigots. The irony is inescapable.

Not saying gays are the only bigots; just the only hypocritical bigots!

Amazing that I live in a time where a homosexual priest has a problem with someone who thinks his "lifestyle" is wrong participating in an event like the inauguration. The militant gay agenda has been successful in reversing the tide by making people think that if one thinks homosexuality is wrong, immoral, and abnormal, then there is something wrong with us! Yes, I am one of the "silent majority" who believes homosexuality is wrong, immoral, and abnormal. Gay is not okay. Saying that someone who disagrees is a "homophobe" is one of their tactics. Just like if you didn't vote for Obama, then you're a racist. Yes, I am a homophobe – I greatly fear what this and other militant fringe groups are doing to tear this Country apart. I await the backlash – it's gone too far.

For those that are parents or can relate to being a parent, God is our Father and really does love us. Jesus was not religious but based it all on love and a relationship with God. We all struggle with sex, whether we are gay or not. It is a personal relationship with Jesus that changes us to love and try not to do things that dishonor Him or us. Who knows why some are gay and others are not, but the question is how do we honor God with our sex drive? Not easy but Jesus does change our heart.

Vincent and others who say "My God" – are creating gods to suit yourself. You are worshipping a false god – breaking the 2nd commandment. God is a God of love that sent His son to die for our sins and through only Him (Jesus) can we receive heaven. God is also a perfect Judge as he cannot allow sin into His perfect kingdom. God gave us free-will to choose or reject Christ. We can't do whatever we want and simply say – "we are all God's children, and He loves all of us, and we can get to heaven however we want" – this is a man centered FALSE gospel. Because we have all sinned – a man centered gospel will not get us to heaven – sin has seperated us from God. The only way to heaven is the God centered gospel, through Jesus Christ. It's that simple.

We must not expect anyone to understand spiritual truths.

Matthew 7

6"Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.

Randall from FL January 12th, 2009 1:50 pm ET

Well I'm not Episcopalian so I don't know exactly what that's all about but apparently it is a Christian denomination. Which means, I would think they would believe in the bible. So how can it be that they would let him be a preacher? I don't understand this at all. People can be gay if they want and they can be Christian if they want. However it seems like if they were Christian they would have beliefs that would prevent them from being gay.

-----–

No, they really wouldn't. First, gay people cannot choose their sexual orientation. It's determined largely by the genes. Second, both the Old and New Testaments refer to homosexuality as "unclean," and that's different from morally wrong. An unclean act is one that isn't suited to everyone (Romans 14:14). The belief that homosexuality is wrong doesn't come from the Bible; it only became dominant at the beginning of the 13th century, when the Roman Catholic church took over the inquisitions from the secular authorities and needed justifications for the penalties it began to mete out (see John Boswell: Christianity, Social Tolerance, and Homosexuality).

A gay priest. That is just what we need. This is a traversity to God Himself. You want to be gay, fine, but not teaching the Bible unless this person has his own version. God does not hate the sinner, he hates the sin. No wonder Christianity is taking a dive.

Just what we need to show the world what a great country we have become. Just keep him away from the alter boys.

January 12th, 2009 5:33 pm ET

MAN!! Christians are such HATEFUL beings!!! HATEFUL… Christians really are bigots!! well… most of them.

You'll post this but not my comments. I'll do my best tp let everyone know you really are the Communist News Network as it's known around here.

LEAVE P- E OBAMA ALONE DID WE HAVE GAY BIBLE ?

I would like a clear definition of God. All over, these posts refer to God. I doubt that two people here have the same interpretation of God. My God says that homosexuality is a sin. Your God doesn't. There isn't one God. He's different for different people. Therefore, worship as you wish and stop imposing views, for or against homosexuality. No one will be converted and the two sides will become extremely polarized. Preaching one side or the other doesn't help much. Work together.

We are ALL God's children.

Judge not or you shall be judged! God created all man in his image, gay, straight ,whatever. We are born the way we are born. WHO ARE YOU TO JUDGE. You can interpret the bible however you like, enough with the hate. The bible is full of contradictions. You can find anything to support any argument you want to make. I am happy Obama did that. EVERYONE is apart of this. You would like in this evolved world we live in we would be better than this. SAD

Yeah! Boy, the folks that like the Warren decision are sure having trouble with this one. Do you get it yet? It's about inclusion.

We all have something to contribute to society. Unfortunately, more often than not, is hate.

Quote from Robinson
Its really, really unfortunate because of the California ministers support for Californian on prop 8 Which barrs same sex marriage"

Wheres the love REV. Robinson? Are we not called by Jesus to love one another? Why do you tear your brother in the Lord down. He is taking the Bible literally when God says That a man and man are an abomination. Please someone tell
Robinson that Jesus loves Him but not His sin. And Rick Warren was chosen first and Rev was an after thought

These comments are so funny. Many talk about "educate yourselves" and "we are all God's children"... I'll make this simple – we are all NOT God's children. We are all created by God and only those that have been adopted into His family through Jesus Christ are God's children and are members of His family. Don't take my word for it – read the bible for yourself. For those of you who don't believe the bible is true – try reading/studying it for yourself and prove it wrong. Mr. Robinson is correct when he said that Rick Warren wouldn't pray the same way he would as Mr. Robinson is praying to his own god – one that suits himself.

How dare you people judge. Are you prefect? Gay people should have all the same rights as the rest. You all act like there is a choice, people are born the way they are. ( NOT THAT THEY DON'T You would think in this day and age you would know that. GOD made all of us in his image, they are equally as worthy of love and respect. Why does it matter who a person loves, as long as they love?
people LIKE DOBSON HAVE BRAINWASHED PEOPLE INTO BELIEVING GAY IS EVIL. tHEY ARE EVIL SELF SERIVING

if A MAN AND A WOMEN CAN GET "MARRIED" IN A COURT OF LAW, THAN SO SHOULD GAY PEOPLE. until marriage IS STRICTLY A RELIGIOUS RIGHT, EQUAL RIGHTS FOR ALL, STOP THE OPPRESSION AND THE JUDGMENT AND THE HATE. enough

Gay... bishop... what an oxymoron. I can understand the defense of homsexuality if you are an unbeliever, but to claim to be a believer in the God of the Bible and to be openly homosexual is preposterous. You have to believe all of the Bible or none of it. To claim to have the privilged knowledge to be able to glean the truth out of it and discard any part of it as false is ridiculous.

How dare you people judge. Are you prefect? Gay people should have all the same rights as the rest. You all act like there is a choice, people are born the way they are. ( NOT THAT THEY DON'T You would think in this day and age you would know that. GOD made all of us in his image, they are equally as worthy of love and respect. Why does it matter who a person loves, as long as they love?
pEOPLE LIKE DOBSON HAVE BRAINWASHED PEOPLE INTO BELIEVING GAY IS EVIL.
if A MAN AND A WOMEN CAN GET "MARRIED" IN A COURT OF LAW, THAN SO SHOULD GAY PEOPLE. until marriage IS STRICTLY A RELIGIOUS RIGHT, EQUAL RIGHTS FOR ALL, STOP THE OPPRESSION AND THE JUDGMENT AND THE HATE. enough

christians are not very christ-like.

they are filled with hate, bigotry, ignorance and intolerance.

i would say they prefer the teachings of the anti-christ.

Meh. Good for him. I don't particularly care.

WE ARE ALL GODS PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!

If not the anti-christ, then certainly his cohort. anyone who claims to be a believer in the God of the bible but condones by inclusion, openly brazen, sexually deviant professing christian ministers to address a so called christian nation? well his term of office can only lead further down the slippery slope of a Godless cursed society. In God we trust? but which god? certainly not my Jesus.

So according to this article, Robinson was invited before the Warren invocation was announced. Then when the Warren thing was announced, Robinson was vocal about his disagreement and never even mentioned that he had been invited to speak to.

Seems kind of arrogant and intentionally divisive to me.

This selection makes my heart sing! Thank you, President Elect Obama!

FANTASTIC!!! Maybe we will GET BACK THE AMERICA WE USED TO LOVE!! BUSH has divided the country, divided families, divided the world.. Those "jugement day" people need to chill, relax, enjoy the HERE AND NOW, and get off it!!

Separation of church and state people!!!!! Our country was founded on freedom of religion not just for Christians, but for all!!!
Religion has no place in our government... period!!!

If Mr. Robinson was now attacked with the same viciousness that Pastor Warren has, I imagine they'd be a big outcry.

Excellent choice. He's a great guy; has wonderful support of his parents, children, ex-wife, and he's been in a long-term committed relationship for many, many years. I guess that puts him ahead of a lot of heterosexual church leaders.

His inviting Warren and Robinson sends the message, to me, at least, that religious and social controversy won't define his administration one way or the other. Warren and Robinson may disagree vehemently on some issues (as many people do), but they agree that the inauguration of a president is important. By selection representatives of both sides of this particular issue, it becomes a non-issue. Instead, the focus is on the unauguration and moving forward with a common purpose. That's great, because that's what we need to be doing.

Why, after reading this story, does the phrase, "America is going to hell in a hand-basket" come to mind?

@la Guy: "Writing descrimination into any constitution is appauling."

(1) it's "appalling," not "appauling." Unless you were making a subtle reference to Paul the Apostle, who teaches against unnatural affection.

(2) Proposition 8 did not write discrimination into the constitution. Everyone has the same right as everyone else - to marry someone of the opposite sex as nature intended.

This is a disgrace to TRUE Christians. If you stand up for what the Bible says, your hateful, if you go along with what the world allows your not acceptable... a friend of the world is an enemy to GOD. I am a TRUE Christian... and I have to say God hates the sin, not the person...but HOMOSEXUALITY is an abomonational SIN in GOD"S own words.

How GAY

After a string of disappointing moves by Obama, this is a welcome sign that he will not be abandoning progression altogether.

I have read a few comments and I do not understand why so many people share the view that christians are hateful because we do not believe a gay man or woman should be ordained. First of all the condemnation is not of the individual but the lifestyle the individual chooses to follow. Secondly, the decision was made by God and if anyone calls himself a follower of God he must follow the rules of God. Also, if a registered sex offender seeks a job as math teacher in an all girls grade school will he be hired? So you see, society seems to pick and choose when it wants to practice exclusion. The Bible excludes homosexual offenders from sainthood. If I believe in the Bible I must accept that. I cannot change the rules when it becomes unpopular or inconvenient.

please, someone, ...GOD, stop this gay bishop from conducting the ceremony, in Jesus name.

I for one am quite sure Robinson does not pray to God the same way I would. But I won't throw a fit and demand that he not be allowed to pray at Obama's inauguration. It is not that he is gay that bothers me, but his intolerance towards anyone with a different view.

I think it's great Obama is inviting both sides to the event. You can't resolve issues like this by shutting out one side.

Can anyone here remember the days when intelligent people were a majority on the internet and the ignorant people hadn't figured out how to get the "Puter workin"? Looking at the posts below, I see that’s changed for good.

virginia for obama January 12th, 2009 5:27 pm ET

I agree. Let God judge them not me. I will pray for him as I do for all God's children.

His presence at an event such as an inauguration is an absolute travesty! What he stands for not only has splits his church, but shows me that our nation is split! A mistake to have him even participate! He is a very bad example for our nation!

So Gene Robinson is GAY and HAPPY all at the same time. So what else is new?? V. Gene Robinson apparently means a lot to the many parishioners of New Hampshire, so be it..

Go Obama!

Christian and homosexual cannot be used in the same sentence. This denomination is not Christian at all since it picks and choose what it will accept or reject from the Holy Scriptures. Jesus will surely say Depart from Me I never knew you to all those who embrace sodomy as being ok with God

First off,

Mature Christians don't hate homosexuals, only the dishonest Sunday morning pew-warmers do.

But if one claims to follow the Bible, then one cannot condone homosexuality; the God who wrote the Bible does not condone homosexual behavior.

Remember, everyone struggles with some sort of "sin;" some struggle with homosexuality while others struggle with anger, alcoholism, or even lust. (To all my fellow straight people, if we struggle with lust, which is a common sin, then we have no right to "throw stones" at homosexuals. However, we do have the right to rebuke them with love the same way that we should be rebuking each other when we stumble).

We should hate the struggles, not the people. Jesus would have hung out with homosexuals, but he would have lovingly made it clear that homosexual behavior needs to stop in a gentle, non-rude, non-attacking way.

This sounds contradictory, but if you have ever had to gently tell a friend that something they do needs to stop, then you have just done what I have described here, and I doubt that you hated that friend.

All people are created equal, but not all ideas or behaviors are equal; in God's eyes, some, like homosexuality, are inappropriate.

I'll never get this – Why do people hate christians because of their stance on homosexuality when Muslims call for the death of homosexuals. I mean, at least christians want you to live ....Islam preaches your end. Why hasn't this issue been brought up? I feel like I'm swimming in a sea of stupidity...good lord.

While we are on the topic of Leviticus, why don't we discuss chapter 11, verses 9-12:

"9 These shall ye eat of all that are in the waters: whatsoever hath fins and scales in the waters, in the seas, and in the rivers, them shall ye eat.
10 And all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of any living thing which is in the waters, they shall be an abomination unto you:
11 They shall be even an abomination unto you; ye shall not eat of their flesh, but ye shall have their carcases in abomination.
12 Whatsoever hath no fins nor scales in the waters, that shall be an abomination unto you."

How many of you eat shrimp?

People just don't want to face the facts. Some on this forum say that God didn't write the Bible. He was the Auther and tells the truth. We are all not God's children. We are all his creation. Big differerce. God says that Homosexuality is an abonation and sin . If you disagree ,then you are not one of his.
Some day you will realize the truth and will stand judgment for your sin and disbelief ,and misleading others. The judgments of Man is not all correct. Wise up to the real truth.
Saying a Prayer to God ,with a sinful life is not honored . There is still time to change

"Everbody gets a piece of the pie', So to speak, I'm just sayin!!!

It is amazing, one comes to this country believing all the retoric how the United Stades is the greatest and how free it is. It is amazaing that once you get here you find just the oposit. Nothing but bible thumpers, biggots, hypocrites, and people that hate people that are different or belive different then they do.

The american people should be proud of their country and the poeple that live in it regadless of raise color or sexual preference. God made all people and loves all people regardless.

Obama should be applauded for what he is trying to do. Not bowing down to just on group but to include all people no matter what other poeple think. It is time that someone like him has come along to make this a better place.

As far as all your bible thumper, biggots, hypocrites and people haters get a real live.

Obama's selections for his inauguration remind me of the French Revolution, where Religion is gutted and "liberty" gods are introduced. I find this very sad. Even worse is society's embrace of banning religion.

Come on everybody, let's love one another right now!

And to "Truth Hurts" – denying homosexuals the right to marry IS inflicting your beliefs on others. Because you feel it is wrong, you want to take away someone else's civil liberties. How,exactly, is that NOT forcing your belief against same-sex marriage on others?

Religious beliefs should NEVER be allowed to influence policy on civil liberties. Or let's start stoning everyone who is not observing the Sabbath – it's only fair.

Obama just crossed the line. I can appreciate acceptance and tolerance but this is going too far. A priest represents God and Christianity. A priest offers prayers to the God of the Bible. However this same Bible and this same God condemns the homosexual lifestyle. For a gay man to claim to speak on the behalf of God and claim to intercede between God and his people is like saying Hamas represents the best interest of the nation of Isreal.

omg wrote: January 12th, 2009 5:37 pm ET

"Great to hear. Now next step: realize religion is actually all BS and move forward binded by humanity, not myths and superstitions."

I just found it funny you would say something like this but put your name as "omg" which if I`m not mistaken stands for "O My God" just found it ironic. As for the issue of him being gay I see no point in arguing. Nothing we say makes it better or worse. We just have to live with it, the choice has been made. I don`t agree with this, and I`m sure many others don`t either, but really what good comes from arguing about it online?

i am so sad , what a let down , mr president you can not make everyone happy , this so called bishop is not a man of GOD , be aleader and trun away from this satanic man and perverted sodomite

Wow, how enlightening to see so many folks posting here who are without sin. And here all along I was taught in my Christian church that all sins are equal & no one is above anyone else in the eyes of God. I guess President-elect Obama was taught that, too.

As a Christian, it is not our priveledge to hate or judge anyone. But are told by the Bible to Hate sin, not some but all sin. I dont understand Obama's views on picking a very diverse selection when it comes to his Christian picks, just to simply pacify everyone. I understand that you cannot please everyone in anything, but it doesn't mean not to try. But when it comes to your "religious" views that is another thing. You dont cross the line just to satisfy a crowd that opposes your stance. This is what it talks about in the Bible, when our government, who is suppose to safeguard us from so much, decides to openly bring in lawlessness, it defiles the land. If Obama doesn't let "everyone" pick how he will run this country, why would he allow for people to run his religious stance. But as a Christian, everything that happens in this corrupt world aligns up with the Word. I just thank God for having my eyes open and hope that God shed mercy upon this nation of abomination.

It's a shame.
Homosexuals are an aberration and a protestant "bishop" that is a gay goes against the natural law made by God. Shame on you Mr. Robinson!

Religion should never, ever, ever have an influence on public policy. The laws of this country should be based on our inner human morality, which is ingrained in us and has nothing to do with any specific religious belief. To say otherwise is to suggest that those without a declared religious are immoral, which is not only wrong, but powerfully ignorant. The real truth is that every person in this country deserves the exact same rights a priviliges, including the right to marry whomever they love, because that is what marriage is about. Not religion, not procreation, love, and to create any type of policy to hinder that is wrong.

Excellent. We come closer to the day when ALL Americans are represented. What is best about this nation is the nuanced differences among us. We should embrace and celebrate the spectrum of differences that represent this great nation. This is a nice step in that direction.

I don't know why people are so utterly offended by homosexuality. I am a heterosexual, so does that mean I'm supposed to despise those who are not? People who use religion or the Bible to justify their hatred of other human beings for any reason, whether sexual preference, race, gender, or any other, completely baffle me. I cannot understand those who not only hope to make it to Heaven (if they believe in it) themselves, but hope to EXCLUDE from that Heaven all who do not believe exactly the way they do, OR who believe that way but happen to be "guilty" of something (like homosexuality) that they find wrong.
Our country has a LONG way to go before it gets to any sort of moral high ground that the current finger-pointing haters of humanity believe we are currently at.

At Times we spurn our Father's love and choose a sinful path; Yet he will not abandon us,Though righteous in his wrath .
***GOD LOVES US NOT BECAUSE OF WHO WE ARE, BUT BECAUSE OF WHO HE IS ***

OBAMA GAY PASTERS OUR COUNTRY IS GOING TO HELL,ITS JIMMY CARTER YEARS ALL OVER AGAIN

Turn your back on HIM.

I am not against Robinson's or Warren's involvement in the inauguration, but I do not the bigotry and intolerance in Robinson's comments echoes Warren's. Funny how we always think the OTHER guy is the bigot.

I think Obama's choice is a great one... why is it that people are so uncomfortable with situations where there is no looser? It is about time we started to make room at the table for everyone. Just because we don't all share the same views doesn't mean that we can not all get along (or at least try). I'm all for it!

It takes "real guts" to be inclusive!

The rest of you are cowards – do this world a favour and find a tall building – at teast two stories high – see if you can land on your head safely? Send us a note if you succeed!

Go Obama!

I don't understand why he needs to do this. This is why there needs to be a separation between church and state.

My GOD!

It is very sad to see that Obama has chosen an openly gay minister to offer the invocation. Homosexuality is an abomination in the sight of God. The criteria for selection should not be based upon what is pleasing to man or inclusiveness or "reaching across the aisles". It should be based solely upon what pleases God since it is to Him that the invocation will be offered. And while I voted for Obama, as a committed Christian, I am strongly opposed to his stance on abortion and homosexuality.

I now get it? For all the things that we have done as Americans, as people, as humans we can now tell each other what is right and wrong.
To read how each one of us can hate and how we feel our point is the right point makes we wounder just how we got hear. For most it was Bush and for some it has been other things but, know this we will not make it nor will our kids if we do not trun back the hands of hate for each other and our country.
A father of four a nurse and some one that would give my life to save your please think more about what you write and what we are doing because one day the things we enjoy will be lost to those who know more or think they do.
Jerry R Lucas RN
Male Nurse Magazine .com

This is a sad reflection on our society and especially on President Elect Obama. Perhaps the greatest disapointment however is knowing that Rev. Gene Robinson who has had spiritual training is abandoning that teaching and is without a personal relationship with God. For those in relationship with Jesus will obey him, as it says in Deuteronomy "if you love me, you will obey me". I would like to remind my fellow gentile not to lose sight of the treasure burried in the field... its not too late... however as it stands now Paul's words ring in my ears: "run the race with endurance... careful not to be disqualified ourselves". I fear Rev. Gene Robinson may end up paying a high price for the now, in light of eternity. In the World but not of it...

Blessings...

TCM January 12th, 2009 2:13 pm ET

Obama should kick this dude out….trying to appease the crowd needs to be toned down. This guy doesn't even want to use a Bible, because he's afraid he'll offend someone….screw that. We need to stop catering to special interest; gays, illegals…atheists….and drive the country forward on the principles of the founding fathers….When Rick Warren was selected..everyone was whining…select a gay, no one says anything…it needs to be the exact opposite. Special interest or minoritie groups should'nt be penalized, however, they should in no way receive preferential treatment….they should merely be tolerated. Too much of this catering crap….
____________________________________________________
Typical racist crap.

As a gay Episcopal man, I think that it is great that he is speaking at this event. It's about time that people open their minds. We are all human and we all believe in our own religious beliefs. Obama is what this country needs after 8 years of a complete moran running the country that can't put three words together to form a sentence. We are all one and Obama will turn this country around for the better.

I believe in the Bible.
the Bishop believes in the Bible.
Do you> and Do you supress the thruth?

18The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness,
19since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them

Romans 1

Progression is amazing. Obama can't come soon enough. I'm very, very proud to know that one day, being gay won't be seen in a negative light.

It's very painful to see the only country I've ever known destroy itself from within by systematically removing the voice of the traditional American family unit from the air ways, but that's where we're at in 2009.

Ted Haggard – Previous plans with gay prostitute lover
Swaggart – Picking up hookers
Falwell – Dead
shuler – Beating up flight attendents.
Jim Baker – Meeting with parole officer
Catholic church – No comment
Obama was unable to find a conserative minister available for this task.

I'm Christian, and I may not agree with how people choose to live their lives, but as a Christian, it is not my place to judge them. It is my job to accept, respect them and love them like a brother. Judgment comes from another source in Christian faiths, yet Christians routinely judge their fellow men and are incredibly bigoted even to other Christian faiths. It is one reason why I tend not to advertise my faith. Shame at the way others of my faith represent it to the world.

I am incredibly proud of President Elect Obama's decision to lead by example. It isn't his place to judge, but to respect all, and it is our place to do the same. I don't have to agree with a person, but as a human being, and according to my faith, just as much a child of God as I am, they deserve the same respect from me that I would want from them.

If we are every going to grow up, we are going to have to learn how to respect differences and realize that someone being different than us is not an attack on us personally. They are simply different. The President Elect seems to have clued into this and is trying to lead by example. I hope we are mature enough to follow.

People, as my grandmother and mother always said, "if you can't say something nice about someone, don't say anything". Gene Robinson is a fantastic choice.

Those who reject homosexuality due to their religious belief have the right to do so. God in the bible has prohibited not only homosexuality but all sexual behavior outside marriage of one man and one woman.

Those who reject homosexuality just because it goes against their values are not intolerant. Gays need to be tolerant of those who reject their lifestyle. did i just say, lifestyle?

These two groups are not judging anyone, they just oppose strongly a behavior they think is threatening to universal and foundational values regarding marriage of a man and a woman.

To "Welcome to the Obama Show": Inauguration tickets are free. Reserved bleacher seats for the parade are $25, but for folks who don't want to pay that, they can get there early and watch the parade for free too. Where are you getting your information?

Regarding the larger issue of same-sex marriage and Reverends Robinson and Warren – some day (I predict within 10 years), most people will look at this controversy with the same incredulousness as we do the past sin of segregation.

I've never been prouder of Mr. Obama...a brave, wise and far reaching choice. This once again proves the chasm that exists between those who are a part of this new, open-minded and progressive president's call to tolerance and respect, and those who still think Truman is in the white house. Sorry folks...no matter how much you hate us, we are here, we're not going anywhere, and we will no longer sit at the back of the bus. We will continue to rally, we will continue to vote and one day, we too shall overcome.

Obama can't "bring people together" and unite the country if he only listens to prayers from people like Robinson. There is more to faith than what Robinson chooses to do with what's in his pants. I applaud Obama's decision to include both.

Mr. Robinson is far removed from the Christian faith. Rather, based on his beliefs and behaviors it would be better to refer to him as a Universalist than Christian.

BRAVO!!!!! i am so ecstatic over how inclusive President Obama is going to be.

This is the UNITED States of America, ONE nation under ALL.

**People with their Rush Limbaugh and Bill O'Reilly racist and homophobic opinions deal with it.

The Black are not jumping back.

They are Queer and they are here.

I am a Christian, and I don't say that lightly. My personal faith and relationship with Jesus Christ is the single most important thing in my life. You may be expecting me to spew hatred like the kind that is heard all too common on these threads. Instead, I just beg your forgiveness.

I ask that you forgive us Christians who have said these harmful things. I ask that you forgive us for not caring for the poor. I ask that you forgive us for the Crusades, for our selfishness and bigotry. By doing these things we have misrepresented Jesus. I am so, so, so sorry. Please forgive us. If you can find it within yourself, please examine Jesus for who he is, not who people have twisted him to be. His love is greater than anything we can experience on this earth–and I tell you that from experience.

–21 year old college student who loves Jesus with her heart, soul, mind, and strength

Why is it that religion always seems to divide us. Is this what your God wants? The end of humanity will be due to the ones how consider themselves on Gods' side. Their beliefs force everyone into combat. Take a look at what is going on in the Middle East today. It is too bad that we even have to bring religion into our secular government. Perhaps now is the time for Obama to tell all the priests and ministers and guru's to stay home and not come to the inauguration, if they can not get along and start encouraging others to get along.

"I think the transition team failed to ask the question of what, symbolically, this might say to some of our citizens...”

My thoughts exactly – regarding the Robinson's slection to speak.

" I like your Christ. I do not like your Christians. They are so unlike your Christ. "
..... Mahatma Gandhi

I am proud of Obama's selection. I am OM Roman Catholic, but I do not think my faith is the "true" religion of this world. OM = Open Minded.

There needs to be a Rabbi, an Atheist, a Scientologist, a Muslim and several others to balance all this Christianity at the Inauguration.

Sheesh!

I voted for Obama, and I think he'll do a good job, but leave religion out of it!

SEPARATION of CHURCH and STATE!!! Please!

As an Episcopal priest and friend of Bishop Robinson's, I am delighted by President-elect Obama's choice. Through his prayer, the world will see what a spiritual, God-centered and loving man Gene is...and he just happens to be gay. Who cares? Congratulations Transition Team on another great selection!

He's not a bishop. Episcopalians don't have apostolic succession, thus, they do not have valid Holy Orders.

the only people that i want to hear speaking at all during any event is chief justice roberts and soon to be president obama, and his immediate plans for our country. we are in trouble, and squabbing about which minister gets to step over the line of seperation of church and state, seperation of church from state, and seperation of state from church... all are necessary for a truly equal society and an eternal life

Man wrote the bible with divine inspiration from god, so stop saying the hand of man wrote it. yes god loves everyone, but gods true love is not letting people do what they please. Gods true love is doing what is needed to bring people to him, to follow his word and truth. When Israel sinned and broke gods covenant, god destroyed them, bringing famine and sword on his people, his people came back to him. Then god sent Christ to do good works and fix what was broken by man. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.[d] 19This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.

The man closest to what God taught through Jesus Christ is not even a professed Christian but he speaks and teaches more of what true Christianity is than anyone, including the pope.

Listen to the Dalai Lama some time

There have been thousands of gods and there will be thousands more as the universe moves on. The gods worshipped now will die off as they must. I see glimmers of intelligence as more and more come to the conclusion gods are a delusion and may be not as necessary as they were in the past. Science is explaining much we thought of as miracles and will explain more very quickly now that we have computers as powerful as they are. One day, gods will not b necessary and we will do good for goodness sake and forsake delusions for crystal clear rational intelligence. Quoting the invisible cloud buddy to back up a point is irrational. There are currently hundreds of gods – and wars are fought over my god is better than yours. We have moved nowhere from the Greek gods, but I remain hopeful.

The man closest to what God taught through Jesus Christ is not even a professed Christian but he speaks and teaches more of what true Christianity is than anyone, including the pope.

Listen to the Dali Lama some time

The Bible takes a very clear stance with regards to homosexuality. For all the New Age devotees who say there are many ways to God, I suggest you read the Bible and think again. As Jesus said in Mathew 10:34, He did not come to bring peace, but a sword. You must count the costs of being a Christian, even if it means being unpopular or causing division in the family. God is not some rolaids tablet or a nirvana pill that you try to make Him to be. Jesus was poor, had a tough life, suffered greatly, and was even homeless during his ministry. Remember, everyone will have to give an account of their lives to Jesus one day. Those that laugh right now laugh in vain, as God is not mocked.

Most of the people who are against this are posting comments based on their beliefs and feelings. The name calling and the hate is coming from the supporters of this. I supported Obama but ,why is he trying to force this on us . We should have a write to participate in the Inaugural without having our Christian belifs made a mockery of . Its like he is attempting to put the church on trial. Our commandments have stood for thousands of years these are not fads or mere emotions there are not subject to the time we live. These are deeply held beliefs and to call the church out like this may be catastrophic for Mr. Obama.

Does Obama have a clue? He certainly can't tell who are men of God but to invite men of no moral character such as Robinson who left his wife and children for an un-natural, un-Godly relationship says alot about him.

why dont we all just pray in our homes , in our cars, in our churches everyday between now and then, and then we wont have the need to choose one or four religious viewpoints over countless others.. and therefore this issue that divides us, wont be an issue in this already stressful transitional time in the life of our nation.

blind sheep wont get into heaven, they did not find God through Jesus on their own... they simply followed someone else.. do the work and thought yourself.. quit being lazy, find spirituality over religion.

The God I pray to is Spirit...but quite real...I just can't concieve him appreciating all this bickering taking place on this great world he created just for us. Can't we all be better stewards of our hearts and minds? Enough of the I'm better than you stuff, or I'll whine because you don't agree with me. God gave us ten commandments, and put much focus on # 1. To love him with all your heart mind and soul, because in doing so you are then loving yourself (as he created you in his image). Equally important he stressed to love your neighbor (that would be inclusive of all people). Let God do the judging, he promises he will. If people would just listen to his Spirit we would have a much happier world.

Can you believe it? I do not believe the Christianity that our President-Elect Obama is demonstrating is the same Christianity that is displayed in the Holy Bible. The choice of an openly homosexual man to provide an invocation during the inaugural events is a slap in the face to the Almighty’s commandments. To knowingly and proudly allow a man living in sin to seek favor from God for his administration and our country, I believe is a great mockery to the One who holds our country in His hands. It is a false humility to seek grace from our Father, but to ignore the precepts against homosexuality in His word. God’s wrath is being stored up for people and nations who turn there back on Him. I challenge you to pray for our country. Pray for forgiveness. Pray for mercy. Pray as Abraham prayed that the righteous would not be punished with the wicked. No amount of evil can have victory over God or His people.

To all the donkeys who are attacking Christians here, read the Bible before you open your mouths. If you read the Prophecies you will see where the truth is. BTW, aethists are the most hateful little critters i have seen....they make the neck slashers of Islam look like Mother Teresa......Read the Bible and see the prophecies.....you just might learn something....

Thank you Mr. Obama for allowing the world to see the breath of your vision for an inclusive America. We are the last of the disinfranchised group that make up what our founders invisioned for an America of "We the People." I believe that the conservatives would prefer that the government not use the word marriage. I believe that they feel a certain sense of ownership in their definition of the word. If they need marriage to mean a legal union between a man and a woman that is santified by the church then let them have it. As long as they don't deny any other American their birthright...the same laws that we were taught protect us all under the Constitution.
Keep the Church Out of Politics....AMEN

WHO CARES if he is gay. You will be condemned if you condemn. THAT IS TRUE. and people, stop judging. What makes you any better than a gay priest? NOTHING. Accept people for who they are and guess what, if you don' t like who they are, set your OWN boundary. Don't try to make others live out your dreams! He among you who is innocent, throw the first stone.

Invoking whom? I know: the popular mind of the American dolts.

Hey Truth Hurts, you would never force your "believes" (it's beliefs by the way) on anyone yet you say marriage is between one man and one woman and heterosexuals by definition should not be allowed to marry. That IS forcing your beliefs on someone!!! To all of you quoting Leviticus, according to that, football is immoral (thou shalt not handle the flesh of swine on the sabbath) and so are polyester cotton blends (thou shalt not wear cloth of mixed fibers).

who cares, as long as he delivers a good sermon, a boring sermon is its own sin

Wow Bart, a very well thought out opinion. It's refreshing to read.

Those who are so concerned with what others do in the privacy of their bedrooms is way beyond me. But for all those that voted for Prop 8 in California…those that are implying their backward beliefs on society…you will NEVER change who gays and lesbians choose as their partners.

Civil unions are far from equal to marriage. Gays cannot file taxes the same as married couples. Our children are subject to different rules for establishing health insurance coverage. Heck, our foreign partners would not even be able to establish residency in the United States under current situation…which married spouses would enjoy.

I just have to laugh at how un-educated these racists come across.

It funny how easy it is for some of us who are open minded to be close minded about close minded people.

Good gracious, the comments here are blowing my mind. Obama is allowing people with stances on both sides of a major issue to be part of his inauguration. How on earth is that a bad thing? This country needs MORE open-minded leaders, not less.

Now I hope the deranged Evangelicals and the whiny one-issue only gay rights people will step aside and let more important issues be dealt with.

seems that Obama is more tolerant than even Robinson, who was concerned because Warren "Wouldn't pray like me." Does that mean, if we don't pray like Robinson, that we are wrong? Who's the biggot?

I would dearly like to see this country split into two groups. Those who are willing to regard everyone as legal equals regardless of their religious or sexual preferences, and those who arent. Im willing to bet anything and everything that the group with those who regard everyone as equal would be the cleanest, richest, most enjoyable and all around happiest.

I have too tell you i'm a bit surprised, why he's trying to accomadate gays is beyond me i just hope he don't forget to help the others.

Well why not...He has got that right wing wack o doodle doing the wearing in so having a gay priest partici[ating ebens it all out.

Obama is the president of all of us...bravo Obama!!!

I wish Rev. Robinson would replace Rick Warren, given that his views are more inclusive of diversity.

I am happy that Rev. Robinson is. at least, playing a role in the inauguration.

to the comment from Houston, TX, we won't loose our freedom because of prejudice and hate; it will be because we have turned so far from God. Don't you get it, if a true Christian (which by the way) means "Christ-like" speaks truth, it is defined as hate. To all who have lumped all who call themselves Christians into one lump and have just as much hate in your comments, if not more, Christ died on a cross by those who didn't like what He had to say. He gave His life freely so that everyone could make their own choice to serve Him ore deny Him. People don't want to believe that their lifestyle is a sin. Therefore, like the Bible says, "EVERYONE, will have to stand before a Holy God, Who judges sin; and each person will have to give an anwer for their choices. Let me choose to believe what is sin and I will let you choose, but in the end, I have to stand and answer, and so do you!!!
So the way I see it is if you don't agree with whatever makes someone feel good, does that make you a "bad person?" Well in America, our forefathers wanted us to have "freedom of speech"; so get over it and let the Christian have freedom of speech.

I'm thinkikng..... with truth so relative and such a nice spirit of ecumenicalism, perhaps we could get a couple of pedophiles and bestialitiests to sing Amazing Grace . That would be a nice touch.

If God exists, and IF God is uniquely infinite in "wisdom", and IF "God" ( whatever the name) is the "Creator of the entire universe", then the only fact that matters is that all of creation was made with a true unfathomable perfection . Therefore, ALL Humans were actually created with variations of sexuality, belief, desires, understandings, faiths and interpretations. BY GOD.
No one culture is correct. No one political system is correct. All modern faiths are based upon supression, financial gain, fear of death and hatred.
If Jesus was alive today, he would be recrucified with Christian hatred.( no one wants to lose the money given to buy salvation) Jesus never claimed to be God.. that would have been an arrogant presumption.
If the great prophets of Islam were to speak about what they have learned in the "after life", they would preach that we all are brothers.

There is no God. It is time that we realize that once we are dead, that there is no second chance.

I read Romans 1: 18-32 and I don't see your point. Yes, its says ,"Men committed shameless acts with men", however, it does not say that they were homosexual. For all we know, they could have been molesting each other or even harming each other because it also says they were,"Full of envy, murder, strife, deceit . . .", that does not sound like a gay person to me, it just sounds like some one who has not found God. I am a Christian, and proud of it, but I also support gays and the gay community. So, President-Elect Obama, I say that this is an excellent choice for you, the gay community, and Christianity. God Bless.

Michael, you are completely entitled to be an atheist. But you said that Obama's inclusion of religious leaders in his inauguration violates church-state separation. It does not, and here's why:

The No Establishment Clause of the first amendment simply dictates that the government cannot endorse any specific religion or denomination. It does NOT mandate the exclusion of religion from the public sphere. What you're asking for (by banning religious officials/prayers from the inauguration) is the Establishment of your own religion of Atheism/Secularism as the State religion, which violates the first amendment. We are one nation under God (which is a generic term and is used by all religions), and therefore our elected leaders have a right to invoke the name of any God of their choice, or none at all.

Don't try to force secularism down our throats please. Some of us do NOT want the US to be anything like Europe (which includes embracing secularism)!

I always wondered why the religious right always picked and choosed what to agree with and not in the Bible. I was taught when I was raised in a Christian Church that when Jesus was crucified, the new covenant replaced the old.So that means, by their own teaching, that Leviticus was voided under the new Covenant.

You can fight as much as you want here. God is still the God and He will judge when the time comes. No matter how left or how arrogant you are, the end of day you will face judgement. What Obama tries to do here is to please everyone. The Bible says you can have only one God, I am a Christian and I understand what Obama is doing and know that Bishop Robinson has the right to accept the invitation. What I don't understand is for someone who knows the Bible so well but declares his disappointment in Rick Warren for his support of California Prop 8 because of his own sexual orientation. It is indeed an insult to Christianity and his so called "Father". May God forgive Priest Robinson and others opposed to Him (GOD).

One very helpful piece of advice in order to stay on someone's good side, never talk about religion because you don't know who you will offend

The Bible holds Spiritual laws. These laws are above all physical laws. They can override physical laws and heal and soothe and save the SOULS of all men and women.

For example, a unit of our congregation went on an exorcism task. The elders were sent out but COULD not call the demons out of the person. The demon invoked the laws of sins to make their invocations powerless. The demon spoke of every single person's sins in their lives. They, therefore, had to go back and ask for forgiveness of their sins. Then they could invoke the power of God to cast the demon out of the person.

Spiritual laws transcend all LAWS.

Remember, Jewish Priest, when offering sacrifices to God, if they are not in the right mind and did not enter the Holy Room, untainted, they will DROP dead. There's a string that is tied at the bottom of the ankle and one can pull them out if they drop dead.

PS. MANY PEOPLE SAY, "ONLY GOD CAN JUDGE ME", THIS IS A
TRUE SAYING, BUT REMEMBER GOD WILL ONLY JUDGE YOU BY
WHAT HE HAS DECLARED AS HIS STANDARD AND REQUIREMENT
FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS. IF GOD DID NOT MAKE KNOWN THESE THINGS THEN YOU WOULD BE FREE AND CLEAR TO DO WHATEVER YOUR HEART DESIRES WITHOUT CONSEQUENCES. BUT BECAUSE HE HAD MADE KNOWN HIS STANDARD AND RIGHTEOUSNESS THROUG HIS WRITTEN WORD, THEN YOU WILL BE JUDGED BY THOSE THINGS CONTAINED IN HIS WORD. HIS WORD THEN BECOMES YOUR JUDGE . IN OTHER WORDS YOU WILL BE JUDGED BY THE BIBLE NOT MAN. I HOPE YOU KNOW WHAT'S WRITTEN IN THE BIBLE. AMEN

Romans 1

24Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another.

25They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.

26Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. 27In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.

28Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. 29They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, 30slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; 31they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. 32Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them

I am proud to be both an Episcopalian (in a straight, healthy marriage who has many wonderful friends and family who are gay) and an Obama supporter today.

For those interested in this issue, I suggest the documentary For The Bible Tells Me so – it's all about people of faith who are for, against, or somewhere in between on the issue (although it does tend to lean toward acceptance).

The Right Rev'd V. Gene Robinson, duly elected, ratified and consecrated Episcopal bishop of New Hampshire, is about as far from grandstanding as Rick Warren is from the truth about GLBTQA people.

Bishop Robinson is a humble, self-effacing priest, who goes where he is invited and where he's NEEDED.

His people overwhelmingly elected him; our General Convention ratified that by a comfortable majority.

Former bishop Bob Duncan of Pittsburgh and the "Anglican Province in North America" are about using HATE to gain POWER and MONEY. Make no mistake about THAT.

Howard Ahmanson and Richard Mellon Scaife are bankrolling HIS craven attempts to rend and tear the Body of Christ.

Unsurprisingly, Duncan will be "moderator" ("archbishop") of the renegade province, which, BTW, is NOT recognized by Canterbury, the Primates' Meeting, OR Lambeth Conference. He's been waiting for YEARS for an excuse to get himself enthroned as an archbishop.

The Episcopal Church in the United States of America and the Anglican Church of Canada, along with the Episcopal Church of Mexicon, remain the legitimate Anglican Provinces in North America.

+ Gene is BY NO MEANS the first gay Anglican bishop; he's just the first with the courage to be HONEST about it.

Bud Burgoon-Clark
San Diego CA USA

The Bible holds Spiritual laws. These laws are above all physical laws. They can override physical laws and heal and soothe and save the SOULS of all men and women.

For example, a unit of our congregation went on an exorcism task. The elders were sent out but COULD not call the demons out of the person. The demon invoked the laws of sins to make their invocations powerless. The demon spoke of every single person's sins in their lives. They, therefore, had to go back and ask for forgiveness of their sins. Then they could invoke the power of God to cast the demon out of the person.

Spiritual laws transcend all LAWS.

These comments are proof that religion divides. Leave religion out of the inauguration and out of government.

-Proud Atheist

First, lets talk facts. Disagreement is not hate speech. I simply do not believe that homosexuality is genetic. If it is, then all sorts of sexual behavior we disagree with becomes legitimate. If homosexuality is genetic then it is simply logical that the same argument can be made for pedophilia. DNA does not have social mores attached to its helix. If you hold to a naturalistic world view you you must accept that evolution (ie, natural selection) has selected this group of people to not breed through their desires for same sex relationships; children can only come from male and female. Last, I reject it based upon scripture: Only male and female intercourse is sanctionied by G_D vis-a-via marriage.

So does this mean Obama is forgiven for inviting Rick Warren.

The essence of old style politics especially in Chicago is appearing to be on both sides of an issue tiat the same me. Good thing Barack doesn't subscribe to those old style political tactics.

"So this guy is critical of Warren, who lives out what he believes (the Bible is clear on homosexuality along with many other sins), yet he is going directly against the same Bible he claims to believe. Hmm."

this is the epitome of what i see to be wrong with the political discourse of this country. many people see one right way and many wrong ways, and then condemn anyone who tries to find some middle ground as inconsistent, flip-flopping, you name it. it's a sin, anymore, to hold a set of beliefs, but to include in the conversation/debate anything contrary. but, including only one point of view is dangerous, as is evidence by the last 8 years.

To all "Christians" who believe that gays, atheists, and people of other faiths go to hell: what you're saying is that you happily believe in a God who condemns people to eternal torment because of what they believe or who they choose to love and/or have sex with. In other words, you support torture.

So, maybe what you should really be angry about is Obama's decision to close Gitmo.

Just so people know, the word "abomination" in ancient hebrew translates as "social taboo", rather than "evil sin". Ancient hebrew had others words (i.e. not abomination) to describe things that were considered truly evil, and these words were used in other places in the Bible. As with many social taboos (for example, picking one's nose), they may be considered gross or unappealing. But that does that mean that those acts are evil, or that those who do them deserve discrimination. The writers of the Bible made a choice when they used the word "abomination" and that choice tells us that they saw homosexuality as a cultural taboo, a gross act, but by no means evil. There is a very big difference.

I'm not sure america is ready for the change obama is about to dump on us. He makes one SMART move by putting a gay american in his inauguration and look how all u idoits react!! get over it!! To me if you think obama and this preist are wrong I think you are all going to rot in hell! I hope you do it is bad as americans to judge one another. This is wrost than racism. I hope that obama will wake america up and make same sex marriage legal. For those who can't jump on the train for change!! Aren't americans and don't deserve to be called americans!! As long as you're around I won't think of you as americans I will think of you as just stupid people!

I was a believer, I donated, got people out to vote, I stood by this candidate. Even when I didn’t always agree. Me and my family where planning on attending this event and it would have probably been the highlight of our trip to Washington seeing we were not able to get tickets to the inaugural. I am Christian I been in the church all my life and i have no ill will for gay people. But to take a public event and now attempt to make some kind of moral statement when it is against the very thing that most Christians hold deer. As a Black American I must say Mr. Obama is wrong, and lack the respect to even to began to understand the feelings of the majority. This is not about human rights or civil rights, this about respecting the people who are not gay and force feeding us their beliefs. To strike at the core of the Christian experience and call it to question everything that we hold deer is an abomination. My support is fading and fading fast. My desire is to go to heaven regardless of who the president is. If the choice is God or a Black president I choose GOD.

For all you religios people who appose gay marriage on the grounds that in undermines the "sanctity of marriage"

What about divorce? NOTHING undermines the sanctity more than that...

I don't see any anti divorce rallys anywhere....

wow! is all i have to say...
what a potpourri of people. im very happy for this pick.
the rest of you people leaving the nasty comments... you disgust me.
check yourselves into a mental hostpital.
act like adults.
love one another.

peace

gee why don't we announce it when we have an "openly STRAIGHT" person do something? May as well tell everyone's sexual preferences while we're at it.

1 Corinthians 6:8-10
9Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God?
Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders 10nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.

AMEN omg! Thanks for some rationality.

Robinson is disgusting.

Using Bible quotes to justify your hate and bigotry?

Wow...you religious folks are real pieces of work...

Thank god I'm an Atheist...

Surely the man who lives life in stark contrast to God's plan would pray to God differently... This priest is out there... but quite at home in NH. Here's the thing–you can find acceptance in the world for just about any sin. But to stand in the pulpit as a gay priest, or a murderer, or an adutlerer... these are all sin as defined by the bible. If America wants to accept a gay priest... whatever... but don't think that God is accepting of that act. Winning public opinion and doing the right thing by God are two completely different things. I'm not saintly, to say the least; but I do realize that I don't belong in the pulpit. To sin is oh so human; but let those who at least make an effort to align their lives with God's will be the ones to offer up public prayer for our nation and leaders. B.O. is showing that he loves everyone, but our God is a jealous God... look it up if you don't believe me... restated, you can't worship God and show blatent disregard for his written word... it won't work. You may find that you can please a lot of people by being luke warm... but is that worth being spit out for? Pick a side B.O., stand for something. Christianity does not exist to persecute... That's not my intent. I don't live every day hating myself for every time I fall short of God's perfect plan and I don't have strong disgust for those who don't find marital bliss with someone of the opposite gender. But I do hate to see someone stand with the self pronounced wisdom of God in their heart and telling their flocks that God is okay with this sin. He forgives... yes... but we are not to sin to further forgiveness... we truly are to turn away from sin. To take a vow to God while practicing sin... I don't see how this is good for anyone...

Scott January 12th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

Hell…meet handbasket
______________________________________________________

Hey Scott, that's the most I have heard 3 words say in a long, long, time! Good job!!

It's amazing how when Obama selected Rick Warren, the gay rights were outragedat his choicebecasue it is their way or no way. but you don't hear the majority of Americans decrying this choice even though he represents beliefs that are not theirs. Which group are really the intolerant ones.????

I think you are right that Obama wants to please everyone. Isn't EVERYONE a part of this country.

It really isn't on us to judge and yes, I believe everyone should be represented. Wake up America – believe in what you say, when you say I love all God's people.

It is never about the man or women when it comes to God – it's how the words they speak affect your heart, your personal understanding.

The Bible declares a lot of modern day practices sins. But there is also a new testament that allows forgiveness for one's sins if you repent in your hear. Either way, as Christians, we are to love one another. We are not the judge of our fellowman's personal choices. The purpose of an invocation is nondenominational. This pastor and Warren have the right to interpret the Bible and believe what they want. This isn't an Obama show, it's America's inauguration. That means everyone no matter their political affiliation. The comments displayed today are why I can't vote Republican: too critical and hypocritical.

Why call Christians bigots?? We are not against people but the sin. I belive having a relationship with a same sex partner is a sin, but it as much of a sin like lying, theft, and so on. I do not hate homosexuals. I have many friends that are openly gay. That doesn't mean I have to agree with their life style. I believe everyone is the same in Christ's eyes. Please stop calling Christians ignorant. You do not have to agree with us, but don't lower yourself to name calling.

I am okay with Obama's decision. Any minister he would have picked would have sin in his/her life. Rick Warren has as much sin in God's eyes as does this openly gay priest. God loves all no matter the sin.

PRESIDENT-ELECT OBAMA, IS ATTEMPTING TO BRING *ALL* PEOPLE TOGETHER.

AMERICA SHOULD BE THANKFUL!

Organized religions are the root of all evil in the world. All one has to do is look at history and present day. This does not mean one cannot believe in god, just not enlist ones soul with a religion run by men for their own moral and monetary profit!
AMEN!

Another example that the Church Age has come to an end!!

The bishop should have worn something over his mouth for the sake of modesty, if you get my drift.

Oh my god, Whats next OBAMA. The word of God does not prohibit Gays in any form. No morals in this country anymore. True Obama, anything to get elected. This is a shameful day in America.

I can't stand people who can't resist the urge to quote some silly verse in the bible every chance they get. The religious right is really a sad, pathetic, grumpy bunch of people.

Wow – judge away, folks. Robinson was ordained a minister and bishop BY HIS CHURCH, so whether you agree or not, his appointment was made by theologians much better educated in theology, Christianity, and the Bible than most of the hate spewers posting commentary here. I just love the way someone with little to no education can set up a church in an abandoned store front in this country, attract a congregation, and convince said congregation that their vision of Christianity is the only right one. Hello – if you are a protestant denomination, your church is only about 500 years old, and was born in the same type of dissent that leads modern-day churches to recognize that women and gays have a place at the altar. You "Fundamentalists" are an even younger sect, and considering most can't even see straight when the words "Catholic" or "Judaism" are mentioned, I have to wonder what "fundamentals" of Christianity you're espousing?

Newsflash to the religious tards: The New Testament – and Jesus – have NO MENTION of homosexuality at all. The few sentences in the entire bible about homosexuality exist in the old testament – judaism.

jesus loves gays

i say you all ready 1 corinthians chapter 6.

This priests inclusion doesn't fix the fact that Rick Warren is there. Warren is a person who preaches hate and intolerance to Americans who are easily lead by the nose. Reading many of these comments proves how ignorant so many people are.

The entire gay marriage thing is to me one of the oddest debates in Americas history. Why would anyone want to be party of something that Americans and many all over the world have made such a mockery of. Heterosexual people get divorced at the drop of a hat. It's a complete joke. It would be better to abolish marriage!

And you can tell how many people don't know a thing about the bible with their misquotes or quotes based on some random version of the bible that's been re-translated a hundred times over and over until it is at the point that much of it doesn't even mean what it says in the versions of today.

And for those who call yourself Christian, you should remember what was actually preached was to LOVE.......

Not judge, cast stones, shun, hate...............

Ahh, to live free of the psychosis of religion.

To see a stone and understand the geologic forces that brought it into being, and the stellar fires that gave birth to it's very substance.

For me, God is Gravity, it needn't be any more complicated than that.

The rest is merely variation on a theme, the few controlling the many, the greater number slaughtering the lesser number.

I am glad in some ways that Obama picked both Mr. Warren and Mr. Robinson. When you have people that believe in such opposing views on some subjects, but agree on others, it becomes a symbol of what Obama is trying to accomplish. UNITY.
All Americans have the right to live as they choose only so long as those choices do NOT deny the rights of others. Mr. Warren may not like how the GLBT community lives it's life, but that's OK. It is only when he denies the GLBT the rights they deserve that it becomes wrong.
You live your religeon your way and I will live it mine.

Obama never ceases to amaze, and I do mean positively.

god isn't real. Religion is a scam. Unfortunately most Americans are too dumb to realize this. Myth and superstition should have NO PLACE in government.

TCM-
I am continually amazed at how you drift in and out of reality in the same sentence. I am not sure Rush would even accept your rhetoric.

I'm confused I thought Christians hated gays? Weird.

Robinson has the right to participate, but he will lack credibility for millions of Christians around the world during this historic event. The Episcopal Church in the US is already losing members to Anglican dioceses in other nations.

@ Oh No I will read your verse tonight when I get back to a bible I ask you, however to read a verse a little further in genesis, Genesis 3:16 and tell me if that is how oyu think women should be treated. the bible has been rewritten more than once. When King jaqmes had his translation done he was the final authority on how it was written. he changed items so that they did not reflect the literal translation. Mostly he did this to increase the power of kings, but he also did it on several other issues (including women). So while I agree the bible was inspired by God (I am NOT an atheist) I also understand that taking quotes out of the bible and out of context of the time and writers background is just as foolish as, say, saying McCain said we will be in Iraq for 100 years and that is alright with him. While technically true the context defines it much differently than it was taken when taken out of context.

thanks for reading and responding in a non confrontational manner it is good to see normal conversation on here once in a while.

Maybe Obama can weigh in and help sort out this mess in California with Proposition 8. I think the nation is far from healing. Isn't it funny that In California so many people voted for Obama, but so many voted against Proposition 8? It makes you think that California Democrats like Obama just fine, but don't feel so comfortable with Gay Marriage.

Ironic...

In God we Trust............for ALL americans.

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the Heavens are higher than the Earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain and snow come down from Heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth, and making it bear and sprout, and furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the to the eater; So shall my word be which goes forth from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it. ISAIAH 55 verses 8 through 11. For those that want to be saved from Hell, read Romans 10 verses 9 through 13. This is the work of the Lord Jesus! Hi Mr Atheist.

I love it. People are arguing, debating, thinking, questioning. Now that is truly American. Thank you, President Obama.

The name of the living God is Jesus. This name is above all names. One day you will confess that Jesus is Lord. The Lord Jesus will never accept the lifestyle of homosexuality. If you people do not change your ways, you will go straight to Hell when you die. Real Christians do not worry about haters of Jesus. The Lord God said in the book of Isaiah in the 55 chapter, his word is like the rain and the snow that waters the Earth. He said his word will do what he wants it to do, and will accomplish what he wants before it returns to him. The word of the Lord Jesus burns right to the soul. The Devil wants you people to see the smoke screen before your eyes. What he has hidden from your view is the raging fire that will destroy him and all sinners alike at the end of time

America is the land of hypocrisy. We are suppose to leave religion out of government but we continue ban gay marriage based on Christian law. No matter how you try to sugarcoat it, gay marriage has nothing to do with anything other than religion and religion and govt. don't mix well together. Everyone wants to cry about gay marriage like it's the worst thing in the world. No wonder America is turning into a land of crap. We care more about stopping gay marriage than teenage pregnancy, healthcare, education, poverty, etc. Compared to kids in Canada, China, Japan, S. Korea, all of Europe, we rank last in science and math. But who cares about educating young kids.

Obama thinks this makes up for the insult he made to gays by inviting Warren, who has repeated the same disgusting rhtoric we've had to hear about gays from Robertson & Falwell all the years. It doesn't. Just another politician trying to please all the people all the time.

@ Jen

but my religion says God abolishes homosexuality. ...
----–
If that were true, then why are we here? Just so you know, the only CHOICE I made was to be who I am. You did not CHOOSE to be str8, you are who you are.

Many teens kills themselves when they realize they are gay...I hated the idea that I was (based on how I was raised) and came out to my mother for help when I was 19 as I knew she would be there for me.

I didn't understand it anymore than they did. I was attracted to the opposite sex and didn't know why. I did not know a single other gay person but there was no doubt, just like you had no doubt that you are straight.

It came to this point. I cannot change who I am. I cannot make myself love someone. These things just happen to us folks, we really don't know why that is. I had to accept myself and the life given to me or I wouldn't be living. All of this pressure is brought on by society

Think about it.

Great to hear. Now next step: realize religion is actually all BS and move forward binded by humanity, not myths and superstitions.

MAN!! Christians are such HATEFUL beings!!! HATEFUL... Christians really are bigots!! well... most of them.

When I first heard of this, I for a moment thought it wasn't right but. when I start to think about what Obama is trying to do is show that no matter what a person (s) believes in, we are all humans and God's children and we All makes mistakes and sin everyday All OF US do. And with all our shortgoing He still loves us.

So. . . . if we judge someone and expect God to stike them down He will start with us first.

PS. . . . NO MATTER WHO OR WHAT YOU ARE this economy is affecting EVERONE. . . . We'll All in this Mess together.

@ John, Brooklyn, New York January 12th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

To Ken in Dallas,

Please don't mistake the GLBT community's outrage at the selection of Rick Warren as simply our attempt to prevent someone who disagrrees with us from having a role in the inauguration. Heck – we know we are a minority – and not an especially popular one. If we were angry at everyone that disagreed with us – we'd go crazy.
-------------–
Like gays, dislike gays, hate gays...face it. You live in America. Religion tries to force their beliefs...yet accuse gays of doing the same thing. All they want is to be treated equally UNDER LAW. If you don't believe in equal rights for it's fellow citizens you are living in the wrong country. China has some housing available.

Writing descrimination into any constitution is appauling. You all who voted for Prop 8 do not deserve to call yourself Americans, Leaders of the FREE World.

I can appreciate Obama's vision of unity even if we have different opinions. It is sad to see the hate spewed on this board, and there will be two Americas. One for unity and one for seperation, marginalization, and ignorance. The time for is over for ignorance. Peace.

boered1 January 12th, 2009 2:14 pm ET
______________________________________________________
You must be one of the minority. Please read Genesis 1:27. You will find that there is no in between. So, leave out the name calling and see the truth as it is (in HIS image).

Peace!

FYI... I voted for Obama, but I am still disappointed in this selection.

CNN: Please post my comments, thank you.

I am so glad this Bishop has been invited to give the invocation speech. I am straigt as an arrow, or a straight-jacket if you like, but I am sick to death that the American Episcopals/Anglicans are making such a fuss and spliting over the issue of what should be a personal issue. Get over it already. We are all one in the eye of God, and let's remember what created this church in the first place – a lecherous king.

As a conservative Episcopalian I am ashamed of Gene Robinson. The Church is tearing itself apart over issues such as gay marriage and this will only inflame the situation further.

To Vincent Petrosino....wonderful comments...that was summed up perfectly and beautifully.
It is the truth that man wrote the Bible, not God. Man added parts to suit his needs or to be more dominant over another. The sad truth is those who believe differently and take man's word over God's. Its enough to make one cry! I pray for all those who are God's children....not just those pre-selected from society who are supposed to be our betters. If that is the case, then aren't they committing the sin of Pride?

The Musketeers said it best: All for one and one for all!

To everyone bashing the orientation of the Reverend Robinson:

Take the plank out of your own eye first.

I was a strong supporter of Obama. But not anymore. He will never get my vote. He tried to pretend as he was a church goer. But the truth is he was going to church for political reasons. This is a prove that he is atheist. Looooooooooooooooser!

@ Vincent Petrosino

Trying to help is not judging. I can see you point Vincent... there are so many religions out there, how can there can be only one where you can reach heaven? Well, wouldn't you say that there are more lies than truths in this world. I mean just thinking about life itself. Ask yourself, in what other religion has a being come down, never sin, teach priest the bible at the age of 12, turned the huministic way of thinking upside down and said that God is love and you you need is faith, to love your neighbor, and to believe in me and you will reach the father. Then endure, being beaten, stabbed with thorns, and nailed to a cross with 3 inch thick 8 inch nails in such a way that you would suffer a severly painful death while still proclaiming his love for humanity? Then to die and buried in a tomb which took at least 9 roman soliders to close and then guarded byt 3 shifts of soliders day and night only to rise again and show people all over this world that He is the word and God is faithful to his children. I couldn't find any other religions to protray such divine principles as these. Ask, yourself why people have such a problem with the name Jesus Christ... want do you feel when you say it, does your heart skip a beat, does hair stand up on your arm, are you afriad? People seem have a problem with that name but no other name in human religion. I wonder why....

He can duke it out with Rick Warren.

This whole thing has turned into a made for TV Movie. Enough. Thank God for TIVO. I will have something else to watch during this time.

erin @4:20-

Now why would you want to use a calm, reasonable and rational argument in here?

Don't you know the wingnuts aren't happy unless they can foam at the mouth a couple of times per day over these silly things?

I see Obama picked this guy to satisfy the gay community, because in no way is he a key religious leader in our country. Obama is trying to make everyone happy, but I believe he is putting that above principle which is not good.

As a Christian, I am pleased with both the selection of Rick Warren and Gene Robinson. I think it sends a message of inclusion for all people and beliefs. With that said, I am confused about how Robinson can explain being a gay minister according to the Bible. Many Christians will not accept him as an authentic.

I hope one day that gays will understand that most Christians are not AGAINST gays. We are only trying to protect the institution of marriage as God has defined it to us. We are more intrested in OBEYING GOD, than we are in JUDGING PEOPLE.

HIS IS GOING TO INVOKE WHO?

SATAN!

AMERICA IS DOOM

NO WONDER THE HATE THE BOOK OF ROMANS

I am an obama supporter and although I find it very funny a man who is a priest is willingly "Living in open sin with no expectations on changing it" having such a role... at the same time Obama is the president-elect and has to balance faith and the wants and needs of the non believers. But, it is contradictory to say you follow Christ, but openly and willingly continue to sin. In reality, being homosexual is no worse than getting drunk night after night, in God's eyes. Both are sins, both are equal in the affect; they are crimes against God and his word. Both can also have negative effects on society. Let me be frank, it is said in the last days, "Men will be lovers of themselves", and as you can see, slowly but surely that which was considered immoral and unacceptable has been made acceptable through media and entertainment. Human beings become insensitive to things if they are constantly exposed to it. Which is why it is now tolerated and acceptable to see another man french kiss another man and the same with two women. The same principle can be applied to having a priest still be called a priest or a nun a nun when he/she practices homosexuality. In its essence, Christianity is one religion. There was never supposed to be different denominations. Christians were never supposed to go confess their sins to another human being. Jesus died so that we may have access to the father through him. All of the disciples of Jesus met horrible deaths for following him and proclaimed that he was the Christ even unto their deaths. For the unbelievers, ask yourself… just how far would you continue to proclaim something you knew was false if you were about to get your head chopped off? If there is evil in this world there is a good and vice versa... watch the traps!!!

The cynicism is disgusting on this thread, I voted for Obama simply for reasons like this. I'm sick of fighting with the right wing and at this point also the left wing. We need balance, we need to realize ourselves while understanding the perspective of others. It's a new age, in this country and in the world...

You know people how about we keep religion out of our Gov. like our founders wanted .

"God is love!...............................and he is not a man, that he should lie"!

Honestly,
The Christian "right" has it so wrong. No where in Christ's teachings does he say, "Juge each other and decide who God blesses and who he does not." Nor does Christ ever attempt to write laws.

In fact, Christ came to free us from the law, and he was crucified for breaking "the law." Trumped up charges based on laws written by man.

So, those of you who "this just makes me sick." are on the side of the pharacies who crucified Christ. How does it feel to be in that company?

Good to know that you are so qualified to judge others...even though GOD says this judging is a sin.

Atheist priest January 12th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

But is he married to a woman?

No, his isn't

All you religious bigots need to realize one thing: gay marriage is coming, it will come, and there isn't thing one you can do to stop it. It's just a matter of time. There will be setbacks along the way, but it's just a matter of time before it is legal everywhere in the US. Kills you, don't it?!?

All we are missing is a couple of midgets and bearded lady and the circus show will be complete

Those of you posting anti-gay comments based on religious beliefs need to back off. I'm a humanist, and in this country it is not ok for a mob who believes in the supernatural to set laws that the rest of us have to follow.

@ Vincent Petrosina

Nice note ! I agree with you 100%.
I do not understand people who think that they can speak for God. God will be the judge and I say let him do just that. We are not put here on this earth to judge others. In fact, we had better all start try living with each other. No matter what are beliefs and life style we all need each other.

PE Obama is trying to please everyone and he has a right to do that. Stop being so critical and start trying to be positive and help this man. He really needs all of us to help with the problems he has inherited.

ga. January 12th, 2009 1:27 pm ET

in Leviticus chapter 20, verse 13, GOD CALLS THIS LIFE STYLE AN ABOMINATION, God will be your judge just like he will all of us. God Bless America
=====================

Yo, moron–Leviticus also says slavery is OK. That you can leave your slaves to your children like property. Are you OK with that, too. Wake up and realize that this country is not and should not be ruled by a book of fairy tales–and hateful ones at that.

God judges nothing seeing as he doesn't exist...

Jesus loves everyone – too bad so many Christians don't.

In response to Terry's quote of Rodney King's "why can't we all just get along" .... That would be fine if the religious right didn't insist on pushing the hate agenda by denying others the same rights they themselves take for granted.

I'm an atheist and i couldn't be happier with this pick and the pick of the woman also. Anything to poke the eye of the idiot fundamentalists is alright with me. I hope this is only the start.

P. E. PLEASE SIR , MAKE A STAND FOR SOMETHING ....IF YOU BELIEVE " RIGHT IS RIGHT," THEN STAND FOR IT . AND YOU THINK WRONG IS WRONG " , THEN STAND FOR THAT !! THERE IS NO IN BETWEEN...... AT LEAST WE'LL ALL KNOW WHERE IT IS YOU STAND... I VOTED FOR YOU, AND I AM LISTENING AND WATCHING....

We knew the NOBAMA group would cave to pressure from the LEFT. Well done faithful servant of George Soros.

For all ye about to foam at the mouth:

Matthew, Chapter Seven, verse one......

To those of you complaining about the selection of Rev. Robinson, please remember that everybody on the other side of this argument was upset at the selection of Rick Warren. Obama is not being hyprocritical or "speaking out of both sides of his mouth" as one commentor put it. He is proving that he will be the president of ALL Americans as he promised he would be throughout the campaign and as we all know, we're not all going to agree on everything, but President Obama will listen to all sides of an argument.

Where's Jerry Springer during all of this??

God loves ALL his children – Rick Warren, Rev. Robinson, you, and me.

Great job, Obama.

lane January 12th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Strictly out of curiosity.
How does a personal relationship work with homosexual, Christian leaders? Or any homosexual Christian for that matter? They can not marry and therefore if they have a significant other they can not have a sexual relationship without breaking the command of not having sexual relations outside of marriage.
Again just curious.
_____________________________________________________
You are too funny! But, you've got the right of it. It is really messed up.

Vincent Petrosino- the women did give their input- see the gospels of Mary in the Nag Hammadi Library.
however the better statement should be men chose to keep it out because they wanted the power for themselves.
remember the history the pagans worshiped the goddess and persecuted the christians until Constantine ruled the Christ Jesus would be the new lord.

January 12th, 2009 2:20 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!! January 12th, 2009 1:28 pm ET

THE FUNNY THING IS PEOPLE ARE ACTUALLY BUYING TICKETS FOR THIS EVENT!!!!!!!

HOW CAN PEOPLE ACTUALLY SAY THIS ECONOMY IS BAD WHEN THEY HAVE MONEY TO SPEND ON THIS INAUGURATION?????

THE TICKETS SHOULD BE FREE!!!!!!

———————————————————-
hey jerk- they are free but not all attending are d.c. residents. SO some people are spending money to come see a FREE event. i do it all the time . i live in dallas but drive to see free events in austin…
you should be happy because the people spending money to go to D.C. are keeping the people who work for hotels, planes, taxi's, etc in work for another month. wise up!!!
and on the topic of this "ticker" good for Obama. at least he is going along with his promise to keep everyone included and do his best to hear both sides of the story. i agree with the atheist. i am an agnostic and don't care to much to see religion tied with politics. if we really want to stay true to our roots we need to go back to the pagan religion that was around before christianity. we can all dance naked at a fire lit in front of the mall.

PEACE! it's more than a trend it's a lifestyle.

Funny how such a big deal marriage is in your country. I mean, what is marriage anyway? Seems like a big waste of time and money that gets too many simple people too excited...yadahyadayadah...

Merci, donnez-moi des French Fries.

I agree with your comment, with the exception that I do not believe that the Obama Administration goes far enough on the issue of same sex marriage. I believe that the "term" used, whether it be “civil union” or “marriage”, should be the same for ALL and there should not be a distinction based on sexual preference, since "separate but equal", in practical application, means "less than" to the minority party (Supreme Court’s reversal of Plessy v. Ferguson by Brown v. Board of Education.). Although Civil Unions’ maybe a step in the right direction in terms of basic rights, I do not believe it goes far enough in terms of “life, liberty and pursuit of happiness” for all citizens as expressed in the preamble of the Constitution. Thank you, RJ

Wow, I shouldn't be shocked, but still am, about how many knee jerk Obama haters are complaining about him "trying to please everyone" with this pick quite obviously didn't even read the article. The invite for Robinson was made "prior to the announcement" of the Rick Warren selection.
Also, as a former Catholic, and student of religion as well as the law, I am disgusted that any religious person is speaking, regardless of their faith. The President with take on oath to defend the Constitution, not the Bible. Personal faith is wonderful for many, but it belongs in your heart and your place of worship, not a political inauguration. And while I am straight, I am further disgusted that many of you let your personal choice to believe in a certain religious tenet discriminate against homosexuality, which is not a choice. To quote Jon Stewart, when did you choose not to be gay?

Obama's not even Catholic, What gives here!!

Let's not be the judge. We should let our supreme Creator judge the appropriatness of this man's prayer. I can't image God will listen to a man who willfully disobeys him and expects God to conform this mans standard of righteousness. God has not changed so maybe this bishop won't be using any references from the Holy Word.

I am loving this.

All these folks are "honored" to be selected to be a part of the inaugural party AND they HAVE to play nice with each other regardless of their personal opinions, beliefs, etc. It is wonderful and I think it will either make them LISTEN to each other for a change or demonstrate that they can't behave like adults in public. Either way, it's a win for the American people.

Obama is demonstrating that we truly are a melting pot. Let's hope some of them actually melt a little and can join hands and voices.

Obama has got to feel like he's in charge of a kindergarten sometimes tho... Geez.

Good for you Obama, America is becoming more progressive, Keep up with times or you get left behind.

Admit it – Rick Warren is a politically active homophobe evangelical minister.
Question for Rick – If you're against gays marrying, would you prefer that the Rev. Robinson marry your daughter?

@nclaw441

Please understand that if Marriage was simply a religious sacriment than there would be no problems with what you suggest. unfortunately when the US made marriage a secular law (ie ANY Justice of the Peace can perform one) we removed it from the church and gave it over to the state. Therefore if you want to keep marriage a religous sacrement no problem lets make ALL UNIONS performed previousl, now and in the future, civil unions and any union performed by a chiuch a sacriment and not a part of civil law. That would mean many "married" people would become members of a civil union and many married people would lose their civil union status (unless the minister is authorized by the state to perform the civil unions). think of the outcry that would effect.... but this is what happened in CA and people support it! legal, binding unions were annuled by the state wihtout regard to the people involved. We either call them all marriages (a chuch would NOT have to perform them if they choose not to) and give them equality or we continue to say to a percentage of our citizens that they do not deserve the same rights and freedoms as everyone else because some believe it is an evil and against their religion. BTW there have been NO studies that show a family raised by a pair of homosexual parents is any worse off than one raised by hetrosexual parents.

Does he go on BEFORE or AFTER the openly homophobic evangelistic preacher gives his invocation?

Obama is trying to be inclusive, and that's nice, but we now have prayers, invocations, sermons, and what-not from half the clergy in the country.

It's going to be a LONG inaugeration, for sure. I think I'll get chinese take-out and go see a movie that day....

Those of you who claim to be a follower of christ should be ashamed of yourselves for judging others. Go ahead and defy everything you supposedly believe in. I really wish there was a hot place for you all to burn.

This world is tired of your backward ways and hatred.

Whether you are hetrosexual, homosexual, adulter, poligimist, or just a student cheating on a test. God has given all the right to chose. No one can take that away from you, however that doesn't make it right or acceptable. There is a difference in exercising your God given right and doing what is right.

This issues and other social issues are not that complicated if you just look at how nature is ordered. Maybe we need to start more than just studying wildlife–we need to learn something from them.

WHAT A OPENLY WORLD WE LIVE IN; I DID'NT KNOW YOU COULD BE A PRIEST AND BE OPENLY GAY, AND THIS PRIEST HAVE THE NERVE TO TALK ABOUT RICK WARREN!!!!!!!!!!!GEEZEE

Jen, I don't know what Bible you have been reading but nowhere in any Bible can I find where God "abolishes" homosexuality. In fact, most Biblical references quoted by so-called Christians are actually from the Old Testament whereas Jesus Christ gave us the New Testament (the new covenant) and the request that we "love one another as I have loved you." I don't remember any exceptions to that statement. Unconditional love is what he preached. Furthermore, it is well-established scientific fact that homosexuality is NOT A CHOICE. People are born either heterosexual, bisexual, or homosexual (and some poor unfortunates asexual). It is a biochemical determination. And may I remind you that it would be God-given as God is the giver of all life. Ignorance is one of Satan's best weapons – so get yourself educated.

Maybe this fellow will get saved before millions of viewers.

Some of you need to read the BIBLE it is the only book not written by men but by the inspiration of the holy spirit... It clearly states in the bible that homosexuality is a SIN just as anyother sin... and it needs to be repented of and not lived in...

Thank God my rights are protected by anti-discrimination laws and legislation because you people scare the hell out of me. You call yourselves Christians? Really? Talk about hypocrisy! All you "haters" out there, I would put good money down that you have some demons in your closets....You really think you're better than me and more deserving of civil and human rights? I am SO thankful that American is moving in a different direction and you soon will be the minority! Thankfully, I was raised with the true Christian values, so I will never cast judgement when your views are seen as the minority's. I will always treat you better than you have treated me. That's God's true message! By the way, PLEASE start getting some form of education and information regarding homosexuality, instead of subjectively boosting your egos with nonsense, judgement, and opinion only. Psychiatrists, psychologists, sociologist and the Surgeon General of the USA recognizes my right to exist and states I do NOT have some type of deficit or disorder. Genetics and Psycho-Social factors have determined my sexual orientation and my sexual identity–it's not a weakness in a belief system or in a person's willpower (no matter what you think! Do some research, PLEASE!). You bigots have no idea how uneducated, hateful, narrow-minded, and discriminatory that you sound and come off in your lives. How's that working for you in your day to day encounters? Again, if I had to put down some money, I would bet that your narrow views are creating interpersonal conflicts and certainly one day you will have to face the pain you have caused others. I am so thankful we finally have a President that is working to accommodate and include the diversity of his American citizens. Hang on people, you are the ones soon to be on the bumpy ride as rational, educated, and diverse citizens start to shape policy and law and become the majority. Awe....Justice is on the horizon!

One other thing I must add to my previous post:

If you were dying and you had one opportunity to connect to Christ before you did, would you rather not be connected because the only man who could pray for you was gay?

Self-righteous idiots! Still on my nerves!

I love Barack Obama.

Look at all of you judging! The Bible says "judge not lest you be judged..." It isn't your place to judge and if you know anything at all about God, He hates the sin but LOVES the sinner! Check it out, it's all in The Word.

Stop judging because you don't have the right to do so. Look inside, you KNOW you have something in you you would rather God not know about, but guess what HE know all. Think about that the next time you dare to judge another soul. Only you can answer to God for your thoughts, behavior and actions. It's the same for each one of us!

You guys, with your judgemental, holier than thou, self-righteous attitudes get on my LAST nerve.

Go ahead...examine your self. Are ya perfect and sinless? I didn't think so.

"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" (Eph. 6:12).

PE Obama: If you don't take a stand for something, you'll fall for anything...you've put the presidential stamp of approval in an area that God clearly disapproves.

I don't get this.....never have....never will.....does not make sense

To you who think there are many ways to God need to reread the Word. Jesus said the He is the Way, The Truth, and The Life, no man comes to the Father but through me. There are many ways to Christ, but only one way to God. Some say the Bible is outdated, you would bet your whole eternal existant on that. You are a big gambler, you better hope you win. The Bible speaks against homosexuality, He said it is detestable. That's not judging anyone, those who represent Christ, speak the things of Christ. That's witnessing to ones lost soul.

Vincent you know less than nothing about reaching God! I'm sorry for that but, would be glad to expalin if you really want to understand.

This man is commiting an abomenation and is doing it from the position of clergy. This is horrible. And if you continue to support this behavior you will share in the same hellish judgment he will. Not me, The Bible.

May God forgive you you know not what you do!

Scott January 12th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

Hell…meet handbasket….

I meant to say, that's the most I've heard 3 words say in a long, long, time!

Oh, and I wasn't speaking of the gays and lesbians – just the intolerant haters!

I'm always amazed at the "devout Christians". They are always the least tolerant among us. I know my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ would be appalled by the behavior of many of his followers.

It's good to see Rev. Robinson accepted this invocation.

While I understand why Rick Warren was offered the swearing-in invocation, I still do not think he was the best choice. Joel Osteen, Joel Hunter, or Joyce Meyer would have been better IMO.

Personally, I was a bit discouraged by Rev. Warren's dishonesty recently. He tried to claim he did not make certain social comparisons when there's actual video of him doing just that.

God bless all just the same.

Oh my goodness...I remember this story from the Bible...They must be the two men pray at the bottom of the mountain. And the one says thank you Lord that I am better than that guy.

kuriya January 12th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

People who think they are not sinners and are righteous please give Obama a break. Neither are any righteous or perfect either, we are all children of God. Let God be the judge not you haters.
______________________________________________________
I am not a hater... I voted for Obama, but still believe in the Word of GOD (the Bible). I know that I am saved by grace. We don’t start out being children of God, you have to accept Christ as your personal Savior.

Genesis 1:27
So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.

John 1: 11-13
v. 11 – He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him
v. 12 – Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—
v. 13 – children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.

Romans 3:22-24
v.22 – This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference,
v. 23 – for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
v. 24 – and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

Peace to all and lots of love!

.

Scott January 12th, 2009 2:33 pm ET

Hell…meet handbasket….
_______________________________________________

Hey Scott, that's the most I've 3 words say in a long, long time!!

Everyone should be recognized in this inuguration...people from every walk of life. Period!
NO MORE racism, no more anti-gay, no more anti-American.
This is the United States of America – not the white republicans of America.

Hey Vincent, you think so, HUH? The Bible is the inspired Word of God. God had men write what He wanted them to write. There is nothing in the Bible that God did not want there. Do I take it literally? You bet I do! Do I still slip, yep, that to! Yes, God is a very forgiving God, but there are things He does not and will not tolerate and if Americans do not get on their knees and ask for forgiveness America as we know it is coming to an end and pretty soon, with or without Obama.

For those of you that don't agree with me, ask me if I care???? I speak the truth!

Out of all the available clergy, Obama picks an openly gay reverend.

Think there is a message being sent about whose values matter and whose don't?

Travel tip: Fly over country is going to be a dangerous place for liberals if the economy doesn't improve. Take a plane.

If you want to be gay good for you. It is not ok to be gay. Nor should it be depicted as ok. If you are gay then you made a decision and will have to deal with the consequences of your actions. Like not being able to get married. Being gay should not be shown to be a good thing. Gay people should not be able to adopt children. Doing so is child cruelty as that person will not be able to live a normal life. Gays should not be allowed in the military for reasons such as housing. In other words they would not let men in to the womens showers. If a school student is gay they should not be allowed to use the locker rooms marked for a certain gender. Like i said if you want to be gay good for you but be ready to accept the consequences.

abomination

Jen, oh my GOD, what is crazy is what you said, UNBELEIVABLE especially to come from a WOMAN if you are one, people need to mind there own business my GOD makes the JUDGEMENT call not me or you.

That is why this world is the way it is, because of all you morons that hate people. Gay's have the same right and straight people to be happy and to love someone. We are not hurting anyone by being gay. And Obama is showing that he is equal to everyone and not like most of you out there and other president that are bias to certain people. from the begining Obama has shown that he will be a president for the people and not just for the wealthy. This is a great opportunity for us as Amerincan's to have a President that cares about his people, no matter what background they come from.You people out there that are talking bad about gay's and hating gay's are the ones going to hell for not loving god's creation. If god did not love gay's he would not have created us, but he does LOVE US, just like he loves you as well.

This is definitely the begining of the end.

Jen I agree with you. A woman preacher?? no way. Obama is trying to please everyone and every interest group. Next he will have the KKK doing something. This is way too much cross over. Some of the people that Obama is bringing in are not according to God's word and he is really crossing the line

We can all claim to be, or believe, anything we want. But our actions prove what we really are. The vast majority of people that claim to believe/follow the Bible, in reality, do not, clergy included. Whether you choose to follow the Bible or not is up to you. But in both pre-Christian and Christian times God has made it known very clearly how he feels about homosexuality and pre-marital sex. We can't pick and choose which of God's laws/principles we will follow & which ones we won't. His standards don't change. But our's sure have.
While God wants everyone to serve Him accurately, He won't force anyone. But, in the end, we are responsible for our actions. So, while the lifestyles we choose are up to us induvidually, none of us can honestly claim to be a true Christian if we live a life contrary to God's standards. It would also be wrong for anyone else to attack, verbally or physically, anyone that chooses to do so. None of us has the right to judge. So, let Mr. Robinson say whatever he wants to. He has the right. We also have the right to listen...or not.

What a sad day in American when an open gay preacher is allowed to even be preaching let alone give the opening for Obama. Oh well he has only got one person to answer to and it is not here on the earth.

All of you Christian-right haters need to realize that the ONE book in the Old Testament where homosexual behavior is specifically prohibited also contains prohibitions against wearing clothing made from two different fibers and from eating seafood without scales or gills. So while you're sitting in your local redneck bar eating fried catfish and wearing your poly-cotton blend work pants, you are sinning twice!

It's purely a Victorian convention that has made some Christians see sexual sin as worse than any other sin. Christian-right haters, take the log out of your own eye before you go after the speck in your neighbor's!

boered1,
Christians believe everything in the bible to be the true word of God. Therefore Romans 1:18-32 can be held up as what the Bishop is supposed to believe. But like the right they ignore what they do not like.

My God is a loving God who loves all his children. Obama wishes as many people to be seated at the table of America as possible. No one is to be left out for any reason. God did not write the Bible. Men wrote the Bible without input from women I might say! Men chose what to include in the Bible and what should be left out as if we could not think for ourselves. They had their reasons and they were all not holy. To take the Bible literally and as the ONLY source of Christian doctrine is simplistic, naive and problematic. There are many ways to reach GOD not just one. We have no right to judge lest we be judged in return and found wanting. Are we to believe that a faithful follower of Buddha, Mohammed or the pantheon of Hindu gods cannot reach his/her Nirvana.? Think again.

A female minister, a fundamentalist minister, and a gay minister. I think the Obama administration is off to a good start. Somehow, we all have to get along. Fundamentalists are not going to persuade gay people to turn straight. Gay people are not going to persuade fundamentalists to change their rigid theology. Women are not going to persuade the Catholic Church to accept lesbian priestesses.

No matter what you believe, most of the people on earth think you are an idiot for believing it. As Rodney King said, "Can't we all just get along?"

The rights of gays and lesbians should not be voided to promote the rights of Christians. How is that Constitutional? We can take away the rights of one group to suit the rights of another? What then of the rights of Muslims and Jews? America is NOT a Christian country. It is a country for ALL PEOPLE. Everyone should be afforded equal rights according to the U.S. Constitution. At one time I was an evangelical and voted for Reagan; however, the Evangelicals have spewed hatred, biogtry, and racism for two decades. Rick Warren is no different; his message has been just at hateful, and yet, he claims to "love gays and lesbians." Sorry, you can't love someone and then take away their rights.

Oka I wont be watching, they are making this way too controversial religious!! In my life, nothing against gays as its their choice and life, but my religion says God abolishes homosexuality. Second of all a woman preacher. I am sorry but that is against my religion too. THis is just getting crazy!! I like some sort of Standard morals in Government ... the main things that just about everyone agrees on would have been more of a safe bet. Let the small things people believe in that is very controversial stay out of government. That is when Church and State are crossing boundaries.

Obama can pick whomever he wants, but I have to ask, how can you preach the bible when it "straight" (pun intended) out says that your lifestyle is a sin against the God you are wanting to worship?

And to John in NY... the voters in California were against same-sex marriages a few years ago. The California Supreme Court decided that it was thier job to MAKE the laws, not uphold them. They, more or less, told the voters that they don't count and allowed same-sex marriages. This last vote was to show the state Supreme Court that the VOTERS have rights too. Rick Warren was just following the Bible and protecting the rights of his church.

Bravo, Mr. Obama. And for those of you who don't understand what is happening here... I'll pray for you to get an education.

TCM – you are a sad sad person.........and the reason we still have to have stupid discussions over issues like this.

The Left preaches "tolerance," which is synonomous with utter "intolerance" of individuals who base their beliefs on faith, reason
& the Holy Bible. The President Elect's recent selection is a disappointment, a PR move if there ever was one.

Now I wish I could renege on my vote. I find this disgusting. An openly GAY bishop!!!! Lord help us. Our children have no none to look up to and our country is the laughing stock of the world and the abomination of the universe. UGH! UGH! UGH!

Wow.There's a whole host of right wing nut jobs here today.Go back to the 19th century people!

I think all the people ranting about how "disgusting" this is might be a little closeted themselves...

Obama is being true to himself. In selecting this guy he has proven to me along with others hopefully that he has no stand to take. Obama is trying extremely hard to be everything to everyone and you just can't do that unless you really don't have any stand on anything. In that case we are in real trouble. Bush for all his mistakes and errors never gave any illusion for being anything other than what he is. He did what he did and made no bones or apologies for his beliefs. Obama is wishy washy. No backbone. He wants inclusion for all but is a mistake because who is Obama underneath it all?

Jon> I believe hatred is frowned on in the bible, too. Let he who is without sin...

That goes for the rest of you hatemongers on this site. What is wrong w. you?

It's about love, guys, something the bible speaks highly of and maybe something you should try practicing a little more. Why is that so hard to understand? The bible was writen during a time when people wanted to populate the earth. Therefore it makes sense DURING THAT TIME to look down on any acts that wouldn't lead to populating the earth. These are rules that a PERSON made up. God doesn't care what people do in their bedrooms. Don't you think he has better things to do w. his time?

And Truth Hurts> That is incorrect. Marriage being defined as one man and one woman is a fairly recent development. Men had many wives in the bible...even some of god's "choosen" ones i.e. – Isaac.

inaugurations are stoopid when they are infested with religion, gay or otherwise. who even cares anymore? the divisiveness and hatefulness in this country is shameful, and it's mostly because of fairy tale religions. people need to learn to have faith in themselves. i for one will not participate.

Since people like bringing up the first admendment in all these discussions perhaps you should know what it actually says "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion" Where in any of this is congress creating a law? This proccess has nothing to do with congress and as such the first amendment doesn't apply. If there as truely seperation from church and state then perhaps we should adjust the Declaration of Independce to remove any referance of God or Creator.

Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.....

WHY NOT! People forget that God said to love NOT judge. I am not for their life styles but at the end of the day, I don't have to pay for their sins and they don't have to pay for mine. When we all stand before God, we don't have to pay for each other sins, we will be held accountable for our sins only....and I don't need one more sin to pay for by not loving someone because of their sexual preferences. We shouldn't point fingers!

You religious idiots go back to your caves. Most of you that are married have committed adultry regardless of your gender and the ones that are single definately aren't virgin regardless of gender. This is the 21st century Jim Hall Kansas City Missouri.

Barack, do the words coming out of both sides of your mouth taste good? How are you going to keep trying to satisfy everybody? You can't so don't try. By the way, this is disgusting....

American January 12th, 2009 2:25 pm ET
Welcome To The Obama Show!!!!! People like you make Americans look bad!
-----------–

Did you vote for the village idiot....twice? If so, you are ten times worse than any Obama supporter. If not for him, what about the Old Man and the C? He surely would not last a full term meaning that dip would have been in charge, you betcha

To those who asked how you can have a gay christian priest.

Technically, the Bible says nothing about being gay, which is a state of being. The Bible only says one cannot act on that state of being.

Meaning, even according to the hardliner opinion, that having a sexual relationship between two men is an abomination, there is nothing wrong at all with a Priest (who is never supposed to have sex anyhow) being gay, so long as he doesn't act on it.

I think Warren by his side and Robinson 'in the shodow of the Linclon Memorial' says a lot about Obama.

I like it! Maybe he and Warren can mud wrestle in front of the Smithsonion dressed like panda bears.

seriously, if they are going to have someone who doesn't believe in freedom and equality doing some preaching, why not someone who does?

Arey madhar choddhon.....

There is a HUGE economic problem on hand and you all are worried about about these loude ke discussions???

What about Jobs / growth before we get to the gender related aspects?

tum logh sudarne waale nahin ho...

Ekbaaaal

It is so past time for people to realize you do not have a heaven or hell to place anyone in. Each of us must be responsible for our own salvation.....just because you disagree with the action does not mean it is okay to condemn the person. Why is it so hard to live life without always making an effort to find fault in others?

Everyone just shut up....you people ask for a better america but don't know how to accept it when it's being given to you. He is trying to include everyone – we should all agree to disagree. If you want a gay marriage go and get one...you deal with God when your time comes. If you don't believe in gay marriage just shut your trap and live your life like you think it should be lived because God will surely deal with you too.

boered1 January 12th, 2009 2:14 pm ET

Your life will be reviewed on Judgement Day and there will be much gnashing of 'YOUR' teeth.

Genesis 1:27
So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.

NOTHING IN BETWEEN, BUDDY

I may not agree with this decision... but I say "LET GOD BE THE JUDGE!"

God have Mercy on us al!

"American" (comment from 2:25pm)... ironically your comment is not very American. America looks bad enough to the world and Obama has A LOT of undoing to do ahead of him. This is one of the many steps you're going to have to stomach, like we "Libr'als" have had to endure since Novemeber of 2000.

Come on people, don't get your knickers in a twist...so what if the Bishop is gay and what difference does that make to him giving a prayer for heaven's sake?
PE Obama wants to be inclusive of all people, he has made that clear so can you all please just settle down and move into the 21st Century, things are changing with this administration you better get used to it.

Praise the Lord.

He was the first openly gay *bishop*, not priest. The first openly gay priest in the Episcopal Church was Robert Williams of New Jersey in 1989.

WELCOME TO "NEW AMERICA".

WELCOME TO NEW AMERICA.

To Ken in Dallas,

Please don't mistake the GLBT community's outrage at the selection of Rick Warren as simply our attempt to prevent someone who disagrrees with us from having a role in the inauguration. Heck – we know we are a minority – and not an especially popular one. If we were angry at everyone that disagreed with us – we'd go crazy.

Rick Warren is something different. He not only opposes marriage for everyone – he actually actively campaigned (using his church to do so) for a law that would RETROACTIVELY strip the legal legitimacy of thousands of gay people who were ALREADY married. He isn't just someone who disagrees with gay marriage – he, in fact, is an active persecutor of gay-led families. He has, in fact, actively campaign for the DESTRUCTION of responsible, loving, productive, "pro-family" relationships simply on the grounds of sexual orientation.

I pray for the soul of Rick Warren and his angry, hateful soul.

Hell...meet handbasket....

People who think they are not sinners and are righteous please give Obama a break. Neither are any righteous or perfect either, we are all children of God. Let God be the judge not you haters.

THIS COUNTRY, THE USA, BELONGS TO ALL OF US TO ENJOY OUR FREEDOMS AND RIGHTS. IF WE KEEP WORKING AT IT HARD ENOUGH, WE WILL LOSE OUR FREEDOMS BECAUSE OF PREJUDICE AND HATE.

TCM,

You know nothing, spew misinformation and never contribute constructively.

Obama voted 'present' on 3.3% of his votes in the state legislature.
His actual legislative experience is 8 years, you moron.

Go away . . . please.

But is he married to a woman?

Just be true to yourself. I expect Warren to carry a Bible because it is the true Word of God. It is used in many places in the world to heal the sick and drive out demons. We answer to God, not MEN.

You'd be surpised...BUT not everyone bases their lives around religion. I'm glad it gives you something to hope for, but I live my days by what makes me happy....and I guess that makes me GAY!

Wake up. It's people like you haters who cause more hate. Maybe you homophobes should stop birthing homosexual babies...

So this guy is critical of Warren, who lives out what he believes (the Bible is clear on homosexuality along with many other sins), yet he is going directly against the same Bible he claims to believe. Hmm.

Welcome To The Obama Show!!!!! People like you make Americans look bad!

I have enough of my own shortcomings, so I choose not to judge this bishop. I believe differently than he does, but I don't take it as my place to condemn him. I do disagree with the concept of "gay marriage" as a contradiction in terms. Marriage already has a meaning, and that meaning cannot include the union of two persons of the same sex. Devise another term for such unions, let same sex couples join in such unions if they are so inclined, and move on.

To respond to lane, the question makes sense. What exactly is a gay christian who believes in no sex outside of marriage supposed to do? I believe the science indicates that "changing" is not a real posibility. And marriage is illegal. So, are marriage-minded gay people supposed to remain lonely? To supress all sexual urges? To break their sense of the sanctity of marriage.

Personally, I don't believe that I must be married to have a sexual relationship. And yet I have the right to marry.

But a gay person who believes sex is only something that should happen in the context of marriage? Well, that person has no options. That's messed up.

This is why gay marriage must be legalized.

All this said, I am hopeful that Obama's inclusion of both these people will help move the dialogue forward. Warren has some good stances on other issues and hopefully his heart is open to change...

Everyone needs to relax. Obama has shown that he wants to have a variety of different people and different views present at his inauguration, and it turns out that gays are just one more group that deserves to have a voice here. If you don't like gay marriage, don't get one!

Maybe the right thing to do is to simply leave out all religious trappings from the inaugural ceremonies, unless you're prepared to include a voice for all religious beliefs, don't include any – would make separation of church & state a dream come true.

As a gay American, I find the inclusion of Gene Robinson in the inauguration to be irrelevant.

Gene Robinson has NOT actively campaigned for legislation to dismantle gay families – Rick Warren has. Gene Robinson has not intentionally lied about existing law to scare people into behaving in a particular manner at the polls – Rick Warren has. Gene Robinson has not sought to exclude gay people from the faith community simply becasue of their demographics – Rick Warren has.

The notion by the Obama team that Gene Robinson and his "gayness" somehow will serve to balance out their Rick Warren debacle is, at best, a sad example of flimsy pandering. At worst, it is a clumsy attempt to cover up the new administration's homophobia.

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!! January 12th, 2009 1:28 pm ET

THE FUNNY THING IS PEOPLE ARE ACTUALLY BUYING TICKETS FOR THIS EVENT!!!!!!!

HOW CAN PEOPLE ACTUALLY SAY THIS ECONOMY IS BAD WHEN THEY HAVE MONEY TO SPEND ON THIS INAUGURATION?????

THE TICKETS SHOULD BE FREE!!!!!!

--------------------
hey jerk- they are free but not all attending are d.c. residents. SO some people are spending money to come see a FREE event. i do it all the time . i live in dallas but drive to see free events in austin...
you should be happy because the people spending money to go to D.C. are keeping the people who work for hotels, planes, taxi's, etc in work for another month. wise up!!!
and on the topic of this "ticker" good for Obama. at least he is going along with his promise to keep everyone included and do his best to hear both sides of the story. i agree with the atheist. i am an agnostic and don't care to much to see religion tied with politics. if we really want to stay true to our roots we need to go back to the pagan religion that was around before christianity. we can all dance naked at a fire lit in front of the mall.

PEACE! it's more than a trend it's a lifestyle.

I wonder if the gay community will now issue an apology to Obama for his selection of other clergy involved in the inaugeration.

Live and let live ha, it's not like that means anything to the majority of appalled babies on this blog grow up people!!

As a gay American, I find the inclusion of Gene Robinson in the inauguration to be irrelevant.

Gene Robinson has actively campaigned for legislation to dismantle gay families – Rick Warren has. Gene Robinson has not intentionally lied about existing law to scare people into behaving in a particular manner at the polls – Rick Warren has. Gene Robinson has not sought to exclude gay people from the faith community simply becasue of their demographics – Rick Warren has.

The notion by the Obama team that Gene Robinson and his "gayness" somehow will serve to balance out their Rick Warren debacle is, at best, a sad example of flimsy pandering. At worst, it is a clumsy attempt to cover up the new administration's homophobia.

How American... I am as proud as ever we as a nation are continuing to progress!!!

Obama supporters shouldn't get angry...because, after all, you selected a guy that voted "present," most of his political life (all 6 months of it) ...so, for him to waffle from a gay to an anti-gay....is status quo for him;
he did, said, and promised anything to get your vote...why would he change now? He's campaigning for the next election! Slick Willy Clinton taught the boy that one!

It's truly wonderful to see that so many ultra-conservative, do-as-I-say-not-as-I-do, hate-the-sin-not-the-sinner, Bible-thumpers read AND have time to post comments on CNN.com, in addition to spewing it on FOXNews.

As Gandhi said..."I really like your Christ. I don't like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ."

Read that over again, and then take a long hard look at yourself, and see what you come up with.

Well, here's a test to see if CNN will actually post a comment that has something nice to say about the Rev. Gene Robinson....

This man is genuinely kind, rather than the fake stuff that you see from so many megachurch ministers.

He wouldn't have any appreciation for my snarky and divisive comments either. He simply asks everybody to take an honest look at history, and to take an honest look at how the bible has been misused to defend atrocities toward families and individuals that have done no harm to anybody. He's a wonderful bridge-builder & educator.

This is not a religious state – all you who are for that – please go to IRAN or join the TALIBAN – that is your rhetoric!!

ga. January 12th, 2009 1:27 pm ET

in Leviticus chapter 20, verse 13, GOD CALLS THIS LIFE STYLE AN ABOMINATION, God will be your judge just like he will all of us. God Bless America
___________________________________________________

so how was your Easter ham? in the same chapter eating pig is also called an abomination. I know like most members of the radical right you ignore the parts of the bible you do not agree with and that is OK.

_____________________________________________________

Oh No! January 12th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

P-E Obama, for the first time I am truly disappointed in your selection.

Romans 1:18-32

_____________________________________________________

Jesus spoke out against many sins, but HE never spoke out against this one. you are quoting someone who 1) is not jesus 2) was known as a hard liner Jew before his conversion 3) has been shown to have never left his hard line status after his conversion. In other words the one you are quoting to justify your religion may, very possible, be wrong in his popinion.

idiots

Obama should kick this dude out....trying to appease the crowd needs to be toned down. This guy doesn't even want to use a Bible, because he's afraid he'll offend someone....screw that. We need to stop catering to special interest; gays, illegals...atheists....and drive the country forward on the principles of the founding fathers....When Rick Warren was selected..everyone was whining...select a gay, no one says anything...it needs to be the exact opposite. Special interest or minoritie groups should'nt be penalized, however, they should in no way receive preferential treatment....they should merely be tolerated. Too much of this catering crap....

TO: No Hillary = No Obama January 12th, 2009 1:52 pm ET

Please get a job! you are totally a waste of space! as is WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!! January 12th, 2009 1:30 pm ET

Thanks but no thanks to your comments – you are all obviously clueless and lack any real direction – you have never offered anything constructive – only destructive – you exist why???

As Obama said; We are the "United" States of America. All should be inclusive. The man is making a concerned effort to listen to all of America and we just keep beating up on the guy even before he becomes President. Get United people and stop the hateful blogging. And we wonder why the world thinks we are so third-rate. I mean; read some of this stuff...

poor no (liar)hillary=no obama she still cannot get over the liar hillary lost nor can she seem to understand that in order to serve to all people you must first be willing to listen to them and include them in your discussion. Since this is a national discussion our President (elect) wants to have this means he is listening to those he agrees with and those he may disagree with. he is not limiting himself to only one side of a discussion. Now I understand the members of the radical religious right and the loonely left (including the followers of the liar hilalry) do not seem to get this fact and have always operated by the idea that if you do not agree with them then you are evil and wrong but you see the real world understands this that is why president (elect) Obama has a 81% approval rating (up from 76% last week!)

It's funny, a lot of people here are happy to live their own lives and not bother anyone else....but if someone else who lives a different way wants to live 'their' own life .....some want to stop them at all costs!
Your attitude is most hypocritical, especially when you throw around MISquoted Bible verses. You should remember the main character of the New Testament loved and helped ALL people......are YOU (haters) better than Him?? Judge not lest YE be judged (Dylan from MN that's for you!)
Speaking from a tolerany point of view....if two people live in peace they should be allowed to their own preference.....any rewards or punishment in the afterlife will definitely not be decided by US!

Let's see if Warren and Robinson sit together at the inauguration!!

How can god judge me if I don't believe. This is a great choice. Obama is becoming the president of all Americans. Let the evangelical christians and religious right implode on this choice.

People ask yourself What Would Jesus Do. Say no or yes.

What Would Jesus Do.

To those people who say that Obama is trying to win back the gays after his selection of Rick Warren, perhaps you missed this phrase from the story above:

"has accepted an invitation issued by the Obama team prior to the announcement of the Rev. Rick Warren’s selection"

PRIOR. See that? That means "before."

Anyway, this is great. Maybe now the gays and the far righties can stop bugging the rest of us for a while about which side loves their mythological spirit daddy the most.

He puts up this guy for 5 minutes. But how many open gays are on his staff so far? What legislation is he considering endorsing?

Thanks a lot. Another DNC / RNC stooge.

The problem with Americans is that they cannot handle their own uniqueness or that this is supposedly a country that reflects all walks of life. Good that we can all express our opinions without morons like Joe the Plumber who wants to ban all media (except himself) from war coverage.

You people are pathetic. How unsure of your own sexuality do you have to be to fear the preferences of another.

Oh and leave God out of it. My God isn't a wimp. If something bothers him, he takes care of it himself, he doesn't need my pitiful help. What kind of a limp wristed, incompetent, pansy do you fools pray to?

Come on CNN, I took time to write it; please post my other comment

As a Gay Man AND a Christrian, I think the selection of Bishop Robinson do have a part in the inauguration is a great idea.
I don't see it as pandering to the gay community.

in 2012, wont matter anyways, only GOD will matter and if you choose good over evil...catyscylmasic days ahead folks...

Ga Said:
in Leviticus chapter 20, verse 13, GOD CALLS THIS LIFE STYLE AN ABOMINATION, God will be your judge just like he will all of us. God Bless America.
________________________________________________

it also says slaves obey your master and women cover your heads and....the list is endless... Literal interpretation of this ancient text that was pieced together by MEN over thousands of years has been an excuse for hatred and bigotry for too long...wake up...you are no different than the Taliban..you just go to Sunday school instead of a Mosque.

If your only argument against gay marriage is the Bible, perhaps you need to read a little deeper into that book. Marriage was originally a contract between two men in which they transferred property, including a daughter. Sounds romantic, right? Polygamy also used to be the norm. And how about the stories of incest in the days of Adam & Eve? If they were the first humans, who did their sons marry? Oh yeah, their daughters.

It's not gay people that want to re-define marriage. Straight people did that long ago. Now that gay people want to share in the love and legal aspects of our modern institution of marriage, heterosexual bigots are backtracking. If you're that concerned about the sanctity of marriage and the strength of the American family, perhaps you should address the 50% divorce rate and all the unwed mothers out there.

As for Obama's pick, I'm glad to see he's offering both sides of the issue. Is it pandering? Perhaps. But I'd rather have a President who openly acknowledges both sides of a complex issue rather than bully those who don't agree with him.

For the folks who believe that Obama is "trying to please everyone," you are missing the point. If he was trying to "please" everyone, he would have disinvited Warren the minute that gays started protesting. Instead he stood by his decision and provided a rationale for his choice. His choice to invite the gay bishop is not simply to "please gay people." It is keeping with Obama's long-standing belief (and campaign Rhetoric) that we should embrace diversity in all forms and make this an all-inclusive democracy.

As opposed to all the hidden gay men in the clergy that you have no idea is trying to seduce your sons.

Interstellar Aliens! Why has Obama not invited any ET's to perform and deliver a message of peace and harmony?

Where are the Klingons when you you really need them?

I WOULD LIKE TO TELL PRESIDENT OBAMA NOT TO CLOSE HIS EYES WHILE PRAYING.NEVER TRUST PEOPLE LIKE THESE,THEIR HANDS ARE ALWAYS MOVING.

President elect Obama is showing in this choice that he is openly welcoming everyone to the table. Even though this is against my personal beliefs, and God's word, it is his right to do so. As Pastor Rick Warren was a choice, so is the choice of (suppose to be) Bishop Gene Richardson. So President elect Obama is doing as the people who elected him wanted by having every voice heard. Know right from wrong and silience no-one.

ga. January 12th, 2009 1:27 pm ET

ga, let's be consistent here. Here is Exodus 31:15

"Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the LORD: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death."

Okay ga, if you're really suppose to hate gays, then you also have to murder your neighbor. OR...you could realize that the Bible is nothing more than the thoughts and teachings of men from an exclusively patriarchal society from thousands of years ago.

Martin Luther King said the arch of Mankind is long, but it bends toward righteousness. Naturally there came a day when humankind realized that slavery was wrong, though it is approved of in the Bible. Plural marriage is wrong though it is approved of in the Bible. Because Mankind improves, we bend toward righteousness. To follow a fundamentalist interpretation of the Bible, negates that progress and leaves us stuck in an exclusively patriarchal society of thousands of years ago.

The death and resurrection of Jesus established a new covenant. Leviticus is no longer our law, the Holy Spirit is. The New Testament trumps the Old. For New Testament teaching ag, look at John 8: 1-11

I have a lot more respect for Obama now that he has chosen someone like Bishop Robinson to participate in this important event. People need to know that all Christians are not fundamentalists. And, as for the people who keep quoting Leviticus...if you are going to be a biblical literalist, you cannot pick and choose...remember that Leviticus also says women are subjects to their husbands, slavery is justified, anyone who works on the sabbath should be put to death, and anyone who touches the skin of a pig (...a football!!!) should be put to death.

The "Reverend" Robinson should remove his clerical collar and stop preaching. He's no role model for my kids. What do they teach at episcopal seminaries these days?

Government of all sorts....state, national, local needs to get out of the 'marriage' business. If someone wants a religious ceremony, they go to their priest etc. The state couples up anyone who wants to be coupled....in a civil ceremony...Probably like China...this is all so childish. I could care less who marries who.

Quoting the bible as justification of discriminating against gay people is about as anti-American as you can get. Keep your religion to yourselves and don't burden me with your anti-American, intolerant views through the law. No, I'm not gay but have relatives and friends who are and want only the best in life for them.

Marriage is two parts: 1) the civil union everyone enters when they get the marriage license and 2) the confirmation of that union by either a judge or your church. If you don't like gays getting married, fine but don't foist your intolerant attitude on others just because your holy book says that it's wrong. Not everyone believes as you do.

All you churchies need to chill out. Get yourself worked up about something else please...maybe your own Church leaders being closet thieves, pedophiles, adulterers, etc

Bart Kofoed,

I understand your thinking. It makes sense to differentiate between the relationships (two men vs. man and woman); differentiate, not discriminate. These individuals need ALL of the same rights as afforded to them as heterosexuals.

M

So an openly gay Bishop is going to say a few words, as is an openly anti-gay Minister..........so what? Grow up America.

Rev. Robinson would not have been my choice, but while I don't agree with the choice, I do respect Obama's choice as a leader. There are some post here suggesting he is trying to please everyone which may be a logical argument as long as you are part of the group that is being pleased. I think his point is we can agree to be disagreeable without judging and hating one another. Whether we like it or not, we have to live in this world together and while we are here, we can respect one another without agreeing with them. Afterall if we really believe what the bible says, then we know God will judge us all one day. That's one job that should not be delegated!

Obama – make up your mind.

"Welcome to The OBAMA Show" you seem to spend an inordinate amount of time harping on everything the PE does or doesn't do. You seem to have a personal vendetta with OBAMA...has he done anything personally to you?

Remember: If you can only see one thing when you look at someone, it's only reflective of WHAT's INSIDE of YOU. When you point a finger at others, there are 3-4 fingers pointing right back at YOU.

Well, we know where a few of the haters are today, don't we?

You guys are exactly as silly as the gay people who were offended by Rick Warren's inclusion in these events. Maybe you'd like to boycott the inauguration.

We need to have a President for ALL Americans, not just the ones we agree with.

It's time to grow up. America.

great you wouldnt se that kind of quality comeing from a republican hater.

Rick Warren has now invited all gays to attend his church. If we are will and patience and accepting, this to shall happen!!

Well I'm not Episcopalian so I don't know exactly what that's all about but apparently it is a Christian denomination. Which means, I would think they would believe in the bible. So how can it be that they would let him be a preacher? I don't understand this at all. People can be gay if they want and they can be Christian if they want. However it seems like if they were Christian they would have beliefs that would prevent them from being gay.

In trying to please everyone he will please no one.

"The hottest places in Hell are reserved for those who try to remain neutral in the battle of good versus evil" – Dante's Inferno

Often a noble face hides filthy ways.

Isn't it amazing to see people who purport to know and practice real Christian values spew nothing but hatred when someone thinks differently from them. Especially those who write that "God will be the judge" and they then proceed to do the judging themselves.

You are the ones who give Christianity a bad name. Ask yourselves: What would Jesus do?

Well, I'm not sure it would even be the same God these two would be praying to. It seems Rick Warren prays to the God of the Holy Bible who destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah and Robinson prays to a god who approves of any kind of lifestyle as long as we are "loving". Christ said he came to fulfill the law not do away with it. (BTW-none of the scriptures are "obscure" – as Obama has referred to the ones he evidently doesn't agree with. If Robinson intentionally lives in sin (yep, I DID say SIN} and claims to be a Christian, there lies the problem. Robinson doesn't know the true nature of God The God of the bible does not approve of sexual immorality. Read Genesis 19; if you think it's a fairytale then you are saying the bible is unreliable. Therefore, why call yourself a Christian? Robinson worships a false God who he has conjured up to suit his desires. Simply stated: this is idolotry. I would say to Robinson before he prays in public, "What, symbolically, might this say to some of our citizens"?

I'm happy to see that there will be a Christian presence at the inauguration that is not an advocate of far-right social stances. This is a pretty big deal, demonstrates that President-elect Obama's administration will be an inclusive one, and I think it is a pretty positive step for American and religious visibility.

@ ga.

Deuteronomy 21:18-21 (King James Version)

18If a man have a stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his father, or the voice of his mother, and that, when they have chastened him, will not hearken unto them:
19Then shall his father and his mother lay hold on him, and bring him out unto the elders of his city, and unto the gate of his place;
20And they shall say unto the elders of his city, This our son is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton, and a drunkard.
21And all the men of his city shall stone him with stones, that he die: so shalt thou put evil away from among you; and all Israel shall hear, and fear.

You can't have it both ways, if the gay lifestyle is an abomination to God I can also stone my stubborn child. The Bible is a living word of God not one that remains static and parsed by people for their own benefits.

I'm not gay but I'm also not God and it is a sin to judge others, that's God's job and to place yourself in God's position is blasphemous. Include everyone and treat them all with respect, not everyone will believe as you do but we can surely grow up and get along!

lol! Obama's an equal opportunity offender, now we just need Robinson and Warren to embrace and the story is complete! We are all Americans. God/Allah/Buddha etc etc etc bless PE Obama, and all his various religious ceremonial picks!

It is funny how bigoted this guy is and how bigoted Rick Warren is. Christians are idiots.

Rock on Rev. Robinson! Rock on.

For all those individuals who are quoting the bible to support their anti-gay sentiments, tell me, you have NEVER had sex outside of marriage, or before you got married? Have you ever eaten pork? (bacon, ham, sausage, roast, etc..) The bible also condemns those behaviors...if you're gonna use a bible to condemn someone's actions, then make sure that YOUR actions are above condemnation.

Considering both Holy Scripture and Robinson's openly gay life will God listen to Bishop Robinson's prayer of invocaton and what will He say in response?

Are they bragging or complaining? You elected him.

Yes, it is 'really, really unfortunate that Barry will cater to the heterophobes and allow a gay bishop to advance his perverted life style on America under the pretense of praying with America..

I more disappointed about Obama picking a man who claim's to follow the bible by the post he hold (Bishop) but complete denies it by his life style. which according to Oh No!'s post he is disappointed with as well. So Rev Robinson shut up and stand up for the bible which you claim to follow.
Romans 1:27

Conservatives are racists and against freedom and civil liberty.

Obama is not my God. He can ask whomever he wants to be part of this inauguaral. I do not have to answer to him in the judgment.

nice obama trying to win back the gays who got mad at you for having that priest who was against gay marriage? Wow, a leader who tries to please everyone will fail

Just like Obama, he does live the commandments by God, thoug he claims to believe in God.

I will never accept gays and their believes but it is not our place to judge them or bash them. They will have to stand before their God and accept any consequences that is thrown at them!! We all are sinners and that's why Jesus died for our sins. It is no sin bigger then the next. Gays should not be denied the same rights as Hetrosexaul's unless it is marriage because marriage is between one Man and one Woman!! I would never want someone to force their believes or religion on me and I will never force my belief or religion on someone else.

This is great!!!!

From all the hate from the above posters is the reason why you republicans lost, and lost big time!!!

Your time has come and its gone!

FINALLY

Leviticus also calls the eating of shellfish an abomination.

As an atheist I find it somewhat disgusting that official government events involve the establishment of a state religion in violation of the 1st Amendment. I doesn't matter if it is Warren or Robinson, we are a nation of laws and our constitution prohibits this.

Shame on you people! Stop hating. Come on..this isn't what this country is about. Everyone has a right to their OWN belief , relationships, and what ever else. Don't judge others worry about your own relationship!

Now everyone kiss and make up!!! We've got a new president to celebrate about!!!!

Rev. Gene Robinson, a kind man and an incredible inspiration. This is good news indeed. Hopefully Warren will see the error of his ways.

There's no xian mandated for hate. It's love the sinner, FORGIVE the sin... and remember that freedom is only as strong as the distance between church & state.

If you're going to have religious representation at a government function, then you better represent as many ideas of faith out there as you can. Not all faithful people are arrogant enough to believe that a god would make gay folks then blame them for the god's choices.

Good! I hope majority of catholic democrats in congress are satisfied with their president. It is getting obvious that the obamas's are all about being black, being a leftout as a misfit. You get what you ask for. Gays will not have existed if they parents zygotes or a male and female zygote experienced the 'big bang'. Ahmidanejad must be laughing after being mocked for homosexuals in Iran...LOL> more democrat stupidity.

Leviticus says a lot of things. Anybody who reads Leviticus literally is either a fool or an idiot. Two different types of fabric are a sin. Slaves are OK. Sleeping with a menstruating woman is a stonable offense.

I wonder if President Obama is going to make everybody happy at this point. I think it would be helpful to have a religion-free inauguration. Leave all religious pastors, priests,imams,rabbis out of the government business.

Thank goodness there is a voice to drown out the hate-mogering that has become so acceptable among so-called Christians. This is the real message of Christianity: love and accept.

The crazies come out to attack the gay guy, just like the other crazies came out to attack the anti-gay guy.

It's called having a seat at the table for all points of view. What's wrong with you people?

This is terrible; Obama wants to please everybody. When you don't stand for something, you fall for everything

We should leave religion out of all government events. As good as religion is meant to be, it divides us.

He divided his own people based on his selfishness. Glad I'm not Episcopalian. What planet is this again?

I had better at least see a big Buddha statue to please my religious tastes!!!

ga,
Isn't eating shellfish an abomination?

Sad how selective use of old jewish laws and hate are so easily thrown about.

Maybe all the gays offended by Rick Warren can find something else to complain about for awhile. Maybe burn some churches in California?

But is he married?

It's official..... Obama wants to please everyone, about everything, at any cost!

Strictly out of curiosity.
How does a personal relationship work with homosexual, Christian leaders? Or any homosexual Christian for that matter? They can not marry and therefore if they have a significant other they can not have a sexual relationship without breaking the command of not having sexual relations outside of marriage.
Again just curious.

The article says that the invitation was extended to him BEFORE Rick Warren accepted his invitation. It leads me to ask two obvious questions. Firstly, how many daggone invocation are given at one of these things? (seems to me that ONCE the Allmighty's name is invoced...it's plum invoced) And secondly, why has it not been reported before now that Robinson was given an invitation, and furthermore, what took Robinson so long to accept it?

This changes the whole story for me. So far we have only been told that Warren was invited. That's very very different from inviting Warren and Robinson. Furthermore, Robinson is totally known for his stants on gays, in fact, it's the only reason anybody has ever heard of him, whereas Warren has not been synonymous with gay issue. I think it's pretty hard to say Obama is being in any way hostile toward gays in all of this now.

To me this just totally changes the whole story.

Yeah, I doubt it. Get your religious fundamentalist ideas out of here, they're out-dated and wrong. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

ga. January 12th, 2009 1:27 pm ET

in Leviticus chapter 20, verse 13, GOD CALLS THIS LIFE STYLE AN ABOMINATION, God will be your judge just like he will all of us. God Bless America.

Wait...a gay bishop....anyways

IS THIS NOT PROOF THAT OBAMA JUST WANTS EVERYONE TO LOVE HIM< HE IS PATHETIC

That makes me sick,,,,,,i just lost all respect for obama to let this sodomite speak to america ... where is madeline ohara maybe we need to let her speake so not to ofend atheists ... change we dont need ,, show some backbone obama........

I was anxious to watch a man make history, and now he allows a "gay bishop" to deliver the first invocation, at the Lincoln Memorial of all places! This is not what I want my children to see or understand. Never in my life have I seen so much hypocrisy!

Jeez!!

WHATS WRONG OBAMA SUPPORTERS YOU DON'T LIKE OBAMAS PICK???????????

THINGS JUST KEEP GETTING BETTER AND BETTER!!!!!!!!!!

WHATS NEXT???????

THE FUNNY THING IS PEOPLE ARE ACTUALLY BUYING TICKETS FOR THIS EVENT!!!!!!!

HOW CAN PEOPLE ACTUALLY SAY THIS ECONOMY IS BAD WHEN THEY HAVE MONEY TO SPEND ON THIS INAUGURATION?????

THE TICKETS SHOULD BE FREE!!!!!!

I really resent Robinson's attitude and grandstanding. He's torn apart his own church. Tolerance works both ways!

in Leviticus chapter 20, verse 13, GOD CALLS THIS LIFE STYLE AN ABOMINATION, God will be your judge just like he will all of us. God Bless America.

looks like satan has been really busy lately. lol

P-E Obama, for the first time I am truly disappointed in your selection.

Romans 1:18-32

This is digusting

Are civil unions a case of "separate but equal"? I'm trying to wrap my mind around the gay marriage issue and this is kind of what I've been thinking about lately. If it is a case of separate but equal, with the only reason for the separation due to a person's sexual orientation, then not allowing gay marriage is outright discriminatory.

On other other hand, two men being married to each other is fundamentally a different type of relationship than a man and woman being married to each other. So here we get into semantics, and for the sake of keeping the different types of relationships clear and distinct from each other, maybe it's not so bad to call gay relationships "civil unions" so long as those unions are granted all the right and privileges that marriages get. Just musing here.

Anything goes. Anybody representing lesbians in this melting pot? Hope so.

The courage this man must have to stand up to his religious organization and come out. I have had gay friends in the past, and I work with a gay man currently, and the kinds of prejudice and hatred they have to face from others is astounding. I applaud this man's courage – to stand up and say "I am gay, and that's alright" within an organization that hangs onto old and worn-out beliefs that say someone who says that will burn for eternity. I think that his involvement in the ceremony will be a nice alternative to the bigotry and hatred of Warren.

I look forward to what he has to say at the inauguration.

After all, Freud said that the only abnormal sexual preference is not having one.

The courage this man must have to stand up to his religious organization and come out. I have had gay friends in the past, and I work with a gay man currently, and the kinds of prejudice and hatred they have to face from others is astounding. I applaud this man's courage – to stand up and say "I am gay, and that's alright" within an organization that hangs onto old and worn-out beliefs that say someone who says that will burn for eternity. I think that his involvement in the ceremony will be a nice alternative to the bigotry and hatred of Warren.

I look forward to what he has to say at the inauguration.

After all, Freud said that the only abnormal sexual preference is not having one.

Wow...maybe Palin will pick him as her VP running mate and we will get Dumb and Dumber III

It is ironic that this minister demands tolerance for his life choices (homosexuality in violation of his church's teaching) but cannot extend that same tolerance to another minister that has differing views on homosexuality. I don't hear him saying he should not give an invocation because it would offend all those who are offended by homosexuality.

I hear all prayers. Sometimes the answer is no.

Now I get it. That's why Obama also chose Rick Warren first.

I notice the pattern now. Barack Obama will reach out to the right first, and then the left. That's a smart strategy.

This explains why even Pat Robertson praised him, while many on the left complained. He probably figures that the liberals have nowhere else to go, so he can appeal to them second. This way, he gets the best of both worlds.

I can honestly say that this is not how Washington normally works. Usually, politicians go after their own wing first, and to hell with the other wing, unless they absolutely have to. This is what Bush kept doing during his presidency.

Wake up America, don't keep on pushing God away!!!!

He and Warren should get along real well. This inauguration will be a circus.

THE FUNNY THING IS PEOPLE ARE ACTUALLY BUYING TICKETS FOR THIS EVENT!!!!!!!

HOW CAN PEOPLE ACTUALLY SAY THIS ECONOMY IS BAD WHEN THEY HAVE MONEY TO SPEND ON THIS INAUGURATION?????

THE TICKETS SHOULD BE FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!

It seems to me that the President of all the people of the United States of America is being all inclusive. The problem is...........