Share

Radio pastor under fire for gay remarks

Potchefstroom – A furore has broken out online over well-known radio pastor Riekert Botha's opinion on homosexuality.

Botha, a pastor from the Vredendal Baptist Church, hosts Pleisters vir die Siel (Bandages for the soul) on RSG on Sunday mornings.

He wrote on the "Pleisters vir die siel – Riekert Botha" Facebook page that homosexuality is "out" with God even though it's "in" with the rest of the world.

The parent of a gay child brought the entry to the attention of Jean Oosthuizen, a journalist for the Kerkbode - a church newsletter.

Oosthuizen's writing on the subject in the newsletter and on Facebook lead to fierce debate where RSG was asked to end Botha's contributions.

Botha maintains that he "unequivocally" believes in the bible which he views as the word of God.

He takes no issue with the fact that some may view him as a fundamentalist.

Complaints

RSG station manager Magdaleen Kruger said that although she received a number of complaints via e-mail, it was no more than the amount the station normally receives.

RSG's approach implies that people's views on Facebook represent their own opinions as individuals.

There has however not been any reason for RSG to take action regarding Botha's contributions on the programme Pleisters vir die Siel and Brekfis met Derrich.

The station has however asked that Botha remove the reference to Pleisters vir die Siel and RSG from his personal Facebook page.

On Wednesday Botha "humbly apologised" to people he may have hurt on Facebook.

He also denied that he rejected gays with his remarks saying that: "If God does not reject gays, how can I?"

He did however maintain that "homosexuality is sin as it says in the scriptures".

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE