With Gomes addressing a controversial issue sodirectly, some religious leaders seem to bedistancing themselves form him. Local leaders ofvarious Christian denominations either refusedcomment for this article or did not returnrepeated telephone calls.

Gomes says he understands why some religiousleaders may be cool to him. But he adds that it isdifficult to find a complete consensus on anydoctrinal issue.

"I don't want to underestimate the fact thatfor some people, my views on homosexuality andscripture give them pause," Gomes says.

Some have wondered whether Gomes will suffer inthe political world, where, in some circles, beingopenly gay can make on a pariah.

A Washington Post article on Gomes stronglysuggested that the minister's announcement mighthurt his chances for further inaugurationinvitations.

But other Beltway insiders say Gomes willprobably be unaffected.

"I think Peter's connections to the Washingtonpolitical establishment are vastly overblown,"said Trevor Potter '78, a federal electioncommissioner in Washington and a member ofMemorial Church's visiting committee.

"I think he will continue to be in demand foralmost everything, everywhere," adds Potter, whois a Republican. "I think Peter's an example ofhonesty."

Gomes insists, however, that he is far fromwell-connected with political figures.

"I know hardly anyone in Washington," he says."The premise that I was the clerical ClarenceThomas is patently false."

Taking a Stand

Gomes say it was important for him to establisha position on homosexuality how, when manyChristian churches are again debating the issue.

"There is something to be said for taking someposition," says Gomes, adding that not taking aposition on homosexuality in this era can provokeunwanted curiosity.

While some Christians call homosexuality a sin,some gay and lesbian students say churches may betrying a atone for their own sins.

"Most religions are sexist, racist andhomophobic," says Dubowski, "and it's only in thiscentury that that has changed."