Abstract

The author pleads for an equal and differentiated treatment of marriage and same-sex-unions in civillaw. In theological perspective it is necessary to regard same-sex-unions as well as marriages under the aspects oflife-long commitment and responsibility- both may be and should be »Iove in earnest« F or the decisive moment in every kind oflife-long partnership in the destination that »your body isatemple ofthe Holy Spirit«. - From this central point of view biblical damnations of homosexual behaviour must be criticised. - As further consequences the articel discusses the legal introduction of the possibility of »registered partnership« for gay people and following options in liturgy and law of the church.