Advertisement
A top Brisbane school is reviewing how an evangelical Christian ministry trainee who told students they would go to hell if they were gay was chosen as a guest speaker.
St Lucia Bible Church trainee Jonathan Vickers made the comments at St Peters Lutheran College in Indooroopilly to year 7 and 8 students during a chapel service last week, as reported by the Courier Mail.
“The college recognises and regrets that some comments in the presentation caused genuine concerns for members of our community,” head of college Tim Kotzur said in a statement.
“As a Lutheran school, we believe that every person is loved by God, and the dignity and worth of each person is not conditional upon their background, beliefs, identity, sexuality or circumstances.
Advertisement
“The college does not support any message that could be interpreted as diminishing dignity, respect or belonging for any member of our community, nor do we believe faith should be communicated through fear or shame.
“We are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the service, including the processes for selecting external speakers, to ensure that messages align with the college’s values and educational philosophy.”
At a Friday morning press conference, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie condemned the comments.
“I haven’t seen those reports and comments, but that’s completely inappropriate,” he said.
Advertisement
St Lucia Bible Church holds its regular gatherings at nearby Ironside State School, but is not involved in providing religious instruction at the school.
The church has also hosted multiple events at St Peters Lutheran College.
Vickers is listed as a trainee on the site.
“Confronted with the reality of the gospel of Jesus and his resurrection from the dead, I am certain that all people everywhere need to hear God’s message of reconciliation, repent, and believe in his beloved son,” he said in his profile.
The church and Education Department have been contacted for comment.
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
You have reached your maximum number of saved items.
Remove items from your saved list to add more.
More:
Dominique Tassell is a reporter at Brisbane Times.AdvertisementAdvertisement