Sweden’s religious communities respond to LGBTQI issues amid ongoing dialogue

Sweden’s largest religious communities have been approached for their views on LGBTQI issues, with responses starting to come in. One such community, the Equmeniakyrkan, has shared its ongoing work regarding these concerns. Jenny Dobers, a pastor and regional church leader in Stockholm, highlighted efforts to create inclusive and safe environments for LGBTQI individuals.

Dobers emphasized the importance of dialogue within congregations, not only about LGBTQI issues but also about biblical interpretations. She noted a general consensus that while differing opinions exist, all individuals should feel welcome in their communities. She stressed that attempts to convert LGBTQI individuals are fundamentally wrong, as they believe that God created people as they are.

Within the Evangelical Free Church, Linalie Newman, a mission director, echoed this sentiment, describing coercive efforts aimed at changing individuals’ identities as unacceptable. Each congregation within the Evangelical Free Church operates independently, making it difficult to provide a unified stance on LGBTQI issues, but they take these matters seriously and emphasize the necessity of respecting all individuals during discussions.

Currently, conversion therapy—a practice involving coercive tactics to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity—is not illegal in Sweden, despite being banned in several other countries. A government investigation into the potential criminalization of conversion therapy concluded that existing laws already encompass many underlying criminal acts related to such practices.

Support avenues for individuals experiencing harassment or violence due to their sexual orientation or identity include helplines and mental health resources, ensuring that help is available.