Penrith Christian School will review it’s ‘statement of faith’ that describes homosexuality as an abomination and claims that transgender people are against God’s natural order. The back flip came just hours after the schools Principal Barry Neville (pictured) had told the media that there were no plans to change the policy.
Earlier today Liberal leader Tony Abbott was facing criticism for launching his education policy at a Christian School. Mr Abbott had gone to the school to talk about values and launch his education policy. The appearance thrust into the spotlight the schools harsh line on homosexuality and gender transitioning.
While Mr Abbott told reporters that he did not agree with the statement, he said Penrith Christian School was a “good school.” Mr Abbott refused to be comment on reporters suggestions that he should be offended on behalf of his sister, who is gay.
Just hours after the schools policy received national media attention, the Christian School’s governing body stepped in and announced that the statement would be reviewed.
Stephen O’Doherty, Chief Executive of Christian Schools Australia told the Sydney Morning Herald that the policy would be scrutinised.
“Because of the capacity for it to be misunderstood, the school is going to review the way in which the policy is worded,” said Mr Doherty..
“The language that they’ve used in that statement comes from an older translation of the Bible, it’s not in step with modern language and doesn’t reflect the attitude that the school has to the treatment of people who identify as homosexual.”
OIP Staff
Update: The title of this article was updated at 10:15pm 29/08/2013 to provide improved accuracy.
