Community advocates are calling on supporters of marriage equality to stand by a Baptist Minister sacked for supporting the issue.
Rev Matt Glover of the Lilydale Baptist Church in Melbourne was notified at the end of last week that his contract was terminated because of his declared support for marriage equality as a part of Australian Marriage Equality’s christians4equality campaign (www.christians4equality.com.au).
Rev Glover, who has a young family, has ministered at Lilydale Church for two years and is popular with parishioners for encouraging community outreach and engagement, including ministering to LGBT people.
Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays has opened a bank account for donations to help Rev Glover until he finds a new position.
PFLAG National spokesperson, Shelley Argent said,
“Church groups are the first to complain about discrimination when challenged on the issue of marriage equality. But, sadly they discriminate against their own on this same issue. These “bully boy” actions are hardly Christian.”
“To thank Reverend Glover, PFLAG encourages financial donations that will tide him over while he finds new work and settles his young family into a new home.”
Australian Marriage Equality is holding a benefit for Rev Glover on February 7th 2010 at DTs Hotel in the Melbourne suburb of Richmond.
Campaign Director, Rodney Croome said,
“Matt Glover has stood by us and now we will stand by him”.
Rev Glover is currently considering his legal options.
For further coverage of the sacking click here
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/pastor-supporter-of-gay-marriage-out-in-the-cold-20111205-1ofht.html
For details on making donations to Mr Glover contact Shelley Argent on 0409 363 335
Available for comment:
Shelley Argent
National Spokesperson for PFLAG
0409-363-335
Rodney Croome
Campaign Director
Australian Marriage Equality
0409-010-668
Rev Mike Hercock
(providing support for Rev Glover)
0404-861-366