I agree with Josh's post above. Furthermore, I believe it is unhealthy for a group of any kind to eliminate any difference of opinion, experience, or understanding. The quest for homogeneity has never served humanity well in the past, and it is not serving communities now. If all we do is surround ourselves with like-minded people who look like us, act like us, and believe like us, how will we ever grow? Such "unity" only causes communities to draw into themselves and cease to have a message for anyone outside of their protected circle.

At the same time, every group has its non-negotiables. Almost every group excludes somebody (perhaps those who spew hate, for example) and I can't speak to how far Chad's church was willing to stretch on this issue or others. They may be quite loving and open on many issues, but this particular issue was a sacred cow.