Ho, Aug. 18, GNA - The Evangelical Presbyterian (E.P) Church, Ghana, has condemned homosexuality but believed that those who practice the act can be forgiven and have their lives transformed through Christ-centred approach.

The Moderator of the E.P. Church, Right Reverend Francis Amenu, stated this position at the opening session of the third General Assembly of the Church on the theme: 93Integrity in Mission and Ministry," in Ho.

He said: 93The E.P. Church believes that homosexuality is a complex and serious issue which must be handled as such. Christians should condemn the practice not the persons". Rt. Rev. Amenu said the E.P. Church would through prayers and counseling seek to transform its members who might be homosexuals but punish them if they persist in the practice. He said homosexuals cannot justify their status as normal and a craving to satisfy their desires because 93God does not encourage us to satisfy all our desires".

Rt. Rev. Amenu said homosexual marriage was without Biblical theological precedent and that the phenomenon today like in Biblical times was as a result of distortions brought about by sin. "Clearly heterosexual monogamy is God's ideal plan for marriage, God's unique standard", he said.

He observed that the country was in serious need of integrity and mission in all aspects.

Rt. Rev. Amenu said the theme for the event was a call on Christian leaders to undertake 91'our stewardship responsibilities as members of our various faith institutions premised on morally strong, honest, faithful, consistent, wholesome, holistic and incorruptible principles".