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However, the report recommended a “homosexual child” not be placed with the couple because of an assessment that though they said would unconditionally love a child questioning or exploring their sexuality, they would not support the “lifestyle,” which could mean a child may not feel accepted.

Then, in mid-March, the worker contacted the couple again and said Child and Family services had received the report and had additional questions about their views on sexuality.

The worker and the couple sent emails back and forth. In one, the woman wrote she believes homosexuality is a choice.

During subsequent meetings with Catholic Social Services and Child and Family Services, the couple said they made it clear they would seek counselling and support if their child was questioning their sexuality, but they could not encourage a lifestyle that “we knew caused a higher proportion of anxiety, depression, and suicide attempts than other lifestyles,” according to the affidavit.

On May 3, the couple’s adoption application was officially rejected, according to court documents.

They are asking the court to rule that their rights were violated, and for an order that they be approved as adoptive parents.

In response to inquiries about the court application, Aaron Manton, spokesman for Minister of Children’s Services, provided an emailed statement.

“Our government believes that every adoptive child deserves a safe, healthy, loving and inclusive home. We want to ensure that, in all cases, the adoption process gives both children and parents the best possible outcomes, which is why the application process is thorough and rigorous,” Manton said in the statement.

The couple is being represented by Calgary lawyer John Carpay, who is also president of the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms.

Carpay said he expects a hearing date for the application could be set for some time in 2018.

pparsons@postmedia.com

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