Church Refuses to Baptize Son of Gay Parents

A church in Florida cancelled a child’s baptism after members of the congregation voiced opposition because the child’s parents were gay. 

Christian Today reports that parents Rich and Eric McCaffrey planned to have their adopted son, Jack, baptized at the Episcopal Cathedral Church of St. Luke in Orlando on April 19; only three days before the service, they were told that Jack’s baptism would have to be postponed due to concerns of the congregation. 

Rich McCaffrey said that he and his partner were disappointed in the church’s decision because they believe baptism is an important part of the Christian journey. 

"It is important for us to provide Jack a spiritual foundation he can build on throughout his life. Baptism - the rite of Christian initiation - is a significant moment,” he said. 

"Jack's baptism turned out to be the very opposite of what it should have been. It became about Jack having two dads, rather than a community opening its arms to a joyful little soul, one of God's children.” 

The McCaffrey’s are now planning to meet with local bishop Greg Brewer to determine how to go forward. 

Publication date: May 8, 2015