Hillsong founder reiterates support for Biblical marriage but decries treatment of homosexuals

Hillsong Church Senior Pastor Brian Houston has reiterated his support for the Biblical definition of marriage as a union between one man and one woman, but he criticized Christians who are quick to condemn homosexuals.

In a statement posted on the Hillsong website Friday, Houston called on Christians to participate in the upcoming nationwide postal plebiscite regarding legalizing same-sex marriage in Australia.

Australians will be voting on the legality of same-sex marriage starting in September, with polls indicating that most are in favor of gay marriage. A poll conducted for The Australian indicated that 63 percent would vote "yes" on gay marriage, but 62 percent also said that the parliament should provide legal protections for religious institutions that are opposed to changing the definition of marriage.

Houston cautioned that changing the definition of marriage has "wide-reaching ramifications and should not be taken lightly by any society." But he lamented that both sides of the debate have failed to understand and respect each other's view point.

"Some of those advocating for change to the definition of marriage have confused faith convictions with bigotry however they must understand that Christian – and other religious – beliefs are extremely important to those who hold them and in fact are vital to a tolerant and free society," Houston said.

"Sadly some also use Christianity to alienate and even condemn those who are gay and dismiss their desire to pursue happiness. As a Christian pastor, I will always teach and preach according to Scripture and my personal convictions, but I cannot make other people's choices for them," he added.

Houston pointed out that Hillsong continues to function in other countries where gay marriage has been legalized, such as in the U.S. The pastor assured Hillsong members that the church can "quite comfortably continue to function" whether same-sex marriage becomes legal in Australia or not, as long as the church is not forced through legislation to compromise its beliefs.

In 2015, Houston stated in a blog post that homosexuals are welcome to attend Hillsong services, but maintained that the church will not "affirm their lifestyle."

The statement came after it was revealed that an openly gay couple - Survivor contestants Josh Canfield and Reed Kelly - lead a church choir at Hillsong's New York church. The pastor said that it was a "complete surprise" to the church when one of the choir's directors made a public statement regarding his engagement to a man who sometimes sang in the choir.

Houston noted that homosexuals do not hold leadership position at Hillsong and that the church's position on the issue will not be influenced by the legalization of same-sex marriage.

Hillsong, which was launched in Sydney in 1983, has churches on five continents, including in North America where Hillsong New York and Los Angeles are located. In February, Houston announced that Hillsong is also going to open a church in Israel, as the ministry continues to expand.