Methodist bishop puts a happy face on the Methodist split and celebrates “contextual ministry” as the reason behind the new rules that allowed the American...
David Meredith hugs fellow observers after an approval vote at the United Methodist Church General Conference Wednesday, May 1, 2024, in Charlotte, N.C. When the United Methodist Church removed anti-LGBTQ language from its official rules in recent days, it marked the end of a half-century of debates over LGBTQ inclusion in mainline Protestant denominations.
After more than 50 years of intense and prayerful debate, the General Conference delegates decided to remove language in the Book of Discipline that prohibited same-gender marriage and ordination of partnered LGBTQ+ individuals.now allows clergy to perform, or refrain from performing, a same-sex marriage without penalty, while not requiring that all local churches hold same-sex weddings.
Over the past two weeks, the teachings, policies and structures of the United Methodist Church have changed to reinforce God’s overarching message of love, acceptance and equality. They also affirm the inherent dignity of the LGBTQ+ community and express support for them, their families and their friends.Our mission remains steadfast: “To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” Our focus can now be directed toward our shared worldwide and local mission.
Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. is the resident bishop of the Central and North Texas Conferences of The United Methodist Church
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