“He made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions.”
On June 24, Spain’s House of Representatives passed a bill criminalizing any attempt to change or suppress a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression—commonly referred to as “conversion therapy.” The bill passed with 311 votes in favor, 33 against, and one abstention.
This legislation amends Article 173 of the Penal Code, prescribing prison sentences of six months to two years for those who engage in psychological, physical, pharmaceutical, or other methods related to conversion therapy. Harsher penalties apply when the subject is a minor, a person with disabilities, or when coercion, threats, or organized efforts are involved. Parents or guardians who assist in such practices may also face restrictions or loss of parental rights.
The bill was introduced by the ruling Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE), with lead proponent Víctor Gutiérrez describing conversion therapy as “one of the worst forms of violence a person can endure.” He explicitly identified religious organizations as primary perpetrators of what he labeled abuse against LGBTQI individuals.
In response, the Spanish Evangelical Alliance (AEE) released an official statement strongly opposing the bill. The AEE criticized the legislation for intentionally framing “conversion therapy” in a negative light and misrepresenting voluntary counseling or pastoral care as coercive or torturous.
The Alliance also highlighted a clear double standard, stating that the law supports transitions away from one’s biological sex but criminalizes support for those who seek to align their identity with their biological sex. They argued this violates individual freedom and called it an unjust imbalance. While public funding supports gender transitions, any attempt to move in the opposite direction could be punished, even if voluntarily requested.
The AEE warned that punishing voluntary counseling or pastoral care not only infringes on religious freedom but also imposes a particular moral code through government authority. “If this law is enacted, it will strip religious believers and professionals of their freedom to act according to conscience,” they stated. They emphasized that “freedom of conscience is a core value in any democratic society,” urging lawmakers to vote in alignment with their convictions. “This bill represents a fundamental threat to basic rights and democratic freedoms,” they concluded. (Source: Christian Today, Prayer 24·365, Edited version)
As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. (Ephesians 2:1, 4-5)
God, full of mercy, we entrust Spain to You—a nation seeking to prevent souls from being freed from the bondage of sin by criminalizing conversion therapy that helps people live according to Your created order. Break the stubborn and hardened hearts of those who, led by the lust of the flesh and the lies of the enemy, stand in opposition to You. Let this law not come into effect. May the church in Spain rise with boldness to proclaim the gospel that brought us from death in sin to life, and may the nation become one that praises the glory of grace through the great love that brings salvation.
Prayer 24·365
prayer@prayer24365.org
