Saddleback pastor Rick Warren has denounced the proposed legislation in Uganda that would execute homosexuals who are infected with HIV, a law Warren says "I had nothing to do with, completely oppose and vigorously condemn."

Several media outlets have connected Warren to the bill because of his work combating AIDS, partnering with a pastor named Martin Ssempa. He responds in what he calls an "encyclical video."

"As a pastor, I've found the most effective way to build consensus for social change is usually through direct quiet diplomacy and behind-the-scenes dialogue, rather than through media. But because I didn't rush to make a public statement, some erroneously concluded that I supported this terrible bill, and some even claimed I was a sponsor of the bill," Warren said in a statement. "You in Uganda know that is untrue."

A tweet from Warren earlier today suggests he had been working to kill the bill. "DThanks Bob! It seem our quiet effort helped kill part of the Uganda b so it was worth being ...

You have reached the end of this Article Preview

To continue reading, subscribe now. Subscribers have full digital access.

Log InSubscribe

Already a CT subscriber? Log in for full digital access.