Conversion therapy: ‘Wrong kind of prayer’ concerns

Nicola Laver  |  UK & Ireland
Date posted:  29 Aug 2024
Share Add       
Conversion therapy: ‘Wrong kind of prayer’ concerns

The Earl of Leicester, Thomas Coke. Source: Wikimedia Commons

A full ‘trans-inclusive’ conversion therapy ban is looking imminent – and church leaders are warning the Prime Minister of the threat to mainstream Christian practices, with peers likewise voicing concerns.

In the Lords, several peers expressed disquiet. The Earl of Leicester warned that ‘scaring into silence’ professionals looking after children could lead to unintended consequences for children and young people. The government has said a ban must not cover ‘legitimate psychological support, treatment or non-directive counselling’ and ‘respect the important role of teachers, religious leaders and parents’ – but details are lacking.

In an open letter to Keir Starmer, signatories from 1,300 churches said: ‘Some … want a conversion therapy ban to cover gentle, non-coercive prayer. This raises the alarming prospect of police and prosecutors having to decide whether someone has prayed “the wrong kind of prayer”.’

Share
< Previous article| UK & Ireland| Next article >
Read more articles on:   conversion therapy  /  freedom of speech
Read more articles by Nicola Laver >>
UK & Ireland
Prison sees three ‘emotional’ baptisms

Prison sees three ‘emotional’ baptisms

Three prisoners have been baptised at HMP Chelmsford after attending weekly Bible studies run by Daylight Christian Prison Trust.“It …

People
New CEO for Global Christian Relief

New CEO for Global Christian Relief

Global Christian Relief (GCR), the relief organisation for persecuted Christians, has appointed Brian Orme as its new chief executive officer. …

Give a subscription

Our monthly newspaper is the perfect gift for those who love to think deeply

Give here

About en

Our vision, values and history.

Read more