Viral Video Explores Church's Stance on Homosexuality vs. Pedophilia, Citing Power Dynamics

In a recent viral video, author and writing coach Gemma Hartley sparked a significant online debate by addressing a contentious question: "Why does the church care more about homosexuality than pedophilia?" Uploaded on August 13, 2025, Hartley presented her analysis, asserting that the church's focus on homosexuality is rooted in its perceived threat to established power structures, particularly the patriarchal hierarchy that grants men "dominion over children." Hartley elaborated on her argument, stating, "Homosexuality upsets the power structure within the church, and pedophilia doesn't." She further explained that the abuse of children is "widely accepted and encouraged within the church" because it does not challenge the existing male-dominated power balance. According to Hartley, mutually respectful relationships, especially between two women or two men, dismantle the traditional power dynamics that men currently hold. The video, shared widely across social media platforms, has garnered over 45,000 views and nearly 9,000 likes, prompting a lively discussion in the comments section. Viewers have largely supported Hartley's perspective, with one user commenting, "This is a perfect explanation," and another adding, "I recently figured this out and it makes sense. Since everyone cannot be rich, patriarchy gives men power without money. Equality doesn’t fit in patriarchy." However, some dissent was also noted, with a comment stating, "Maybe for some but not the majority," indicating a diverse range of opinions on the complex issue.