With backing from international NGOs and LGBTQ advocates, lawmakers in Belize introduced a bill that would establish sexual orientation and gender identity ideologies.

Among other things, the bill would create an “Equal Opportunities Commission” and a judicial “Equal Opportunities Tribunal” that would hold virtually unlimited power to handle complaints of discrimination.

Christian leaders in Belize, however, knew better. The Rev. John Robinson called the bill an attempt to “normalize and promote the LGBT lifestyle.” Catholic Bishop Laurence Nicasio said the bill was an example of “neo-colonialism” that would infringe on parental rights and “do much to confuse the youth of Belize regarding the sacredness of sexuality,” which would only lead to same-sex marriage and the normalization of same-sex parenting.

Through their combined efforts, Anglican, Catholic, and Evangelical leaders in Belize successful stopped the bill. At least for now. Thank God for their courage. Christian leaders in the United States should follow their example.