ABSTRACT
Historically the most important force in setting western attitudes toward homosexuality has been religion, and in both Judaism and Christianity homosexuality has been regarded as a sin. Homosexuality could serve for an attack on all the evils that the Greeks represented. In spite of such hostility, there is no evidence that the Jews mounted a large-scale campaign against homosexuality. Denominational support emerged as the Episcopalians, Unitarians, Universalists, and Presbyterians adopted positions on homosexuality. In light of the influence of religion in forming attitudes, it is easily understandable why the churches and synagogues have become a focus in the gay community’s attempt to be accepted and integrated into society. The Metropolitan Community Church inspired similar efforts among Jewish groups, and a group of homosexuals and their supporters organized Chaim Chayam Chadashim, a homosexually oriented Jewish temple.
