AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE CATHEDRAL In recent days, the Cathedral Church of St. Luke has become embroiled in a media controversy regarding the baptism of a child of a gay couple. The conjecture and speculation being circulated has contained inaccurate and false information regarding the series of events and interaction with the family. It is with great care and concern that the Cathedral and the Diocese of Central Florida mutually address this situation with all dignity and respect for the family, the child and the congregation. Baptism is a rite new birth and new life in Christ. Parents, godparents and sponsors promise the child will be brought up in the Christian faith and life - taught the Gospel - so that the grace of baptism may be nurtured and strengthened by the faith of the family and by proper Christian instruction provided by the Church and at home. It is important to note that the Dean and Cathedral have always intended to baptize this child. No one, including the Bishop, denied this baptism. We regret the delay, apologize for it and are working with his family on a revised date that will accommodate their schedule and respect the sacrament of Holy Baptism of their child. The family and the Dean are committed to restoring their pastoral relationship and their welcome into the life of the Cathedral with support from the Bishop. We ask that you respect the dignity of this process and refrain from destructive and inflammatory commentary. In the meantime, the Cathedral is open and welcoming to all with the ultimate mission of leading people to Christ and transforming lives. We will continue to provide timeless truths to a changing world through the teachings and interpretation of the Gospel as Jesus instructed in the Great Commission. As a congregation we will support this family in their desire to raise their child in the Christian faith. We ask for your prayers for the family, the child, the Cathedral and the congregation as we navigate through this process. In Christ we stand united, The Cathedral Church of St. Luke Matthew 19:14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."