Pastoral counselling of persons with homosexual tendencies in a heterosexual marriage

Abstract

The occurrence of marriages failing as a result of one member of the couple having a homosexual relationship has increased since the rewriting of the law on human rights. This resulted in a heightened need for pastoral care of members of the family that were affected by this tendency. Of cardinal importance to this study and in light of the constant debate about homosexuality in the church, a Scriptural foundation is found in the handling in cases of marriage breaking up as a result of infidelity with a homosexual partner. The Praxis model of Zerfass forms the framework in which a new pastoral therapy is sought. As background to the study an investigation is conducted to find the possible causes and resulting effects of homosexual tendencies in the areas of psychology, physiology, and social anthropology. An empirical research form part of the investigation into a practical formulating of a suitable guideline for pastoral care. With the insight gained from the research, a practice theory is developed to fill the gap with a new and appropriate approach in giving pastoral guidance to all parties who are affected when one of the members of the married couple experiences same sex attraction (SSA) or get involved in a homosexual relationship.