Christian rugby star Israel Folau posted a tweet last Sunday that has added fire to a controversy over his previous statement against gay people. The Wallabies player has had to meet with officials of Rugby Australia to discuss his comments on social media.
Folau posted Matthew verse 5 on Twitter that stated: "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake."
The star player shared the Bible verse after receiving strong criticism and a barrage of angry comments for what he said about gay people. Last week, Folau posted on his social media that gay people must repent and return to God or else they could face damnation in hell. The post caused uproar among rugby fans and ignited another debate on same-sex relationships.
Raelene Castle, the CEO of Rugby Australia (RA), immediately issued a statement saying that Folau's opinion reflected his own beliefs and that Rugby Australia has a strong inclusion policy. NSW Waratah sponsors Asics, Land Rover and Qantas also expressed similar concerns about inclusiveness in response to Folau's religious beliefs.
Castle scheduled a meeting with Folau, along with NSW Rugby Union's Andrew Hore, to discuss the controversy. The CEO said that their dialogue was "very open, calm and honest" but add that it was just the start of an ongoing dialogue.
RA, however, won't be asking Folau to change his beliefs but he agreed to take great consideration before he shares his views on social media again. Castle also reiterated that Folau understood what drew the controversy and stated that the star player did not mean to cause grief or disrespect against gay people.
The CEO did not mention any saction for Folau despite speculations he would be penalized.
The Anglican Archbishop of Sydney, Glenn Davies, was among those coming out in support of the embatted rugby star, telling The Australian Folau should be allowed to share his personal beliefs on marriage.
"Israel Folau should be free to hold and express traditional, biblical views on marriage and sexuality without being penalised, just as other players have spoken out with their differing views," he said.
