Church Scraps Controversial Rule

They are shaking up tradition.

The General Conference of the United Methodist Church made a significant decision to amend its Book of Discipline by removing a statement asserting the incompatibility of homosexuality with Christian teaching. Following approximately 90 minutes of debate, the legislative body voted 523 to 161 in favor of the amendment to ¶ 304.3 under “Qualifications for Ordination.”

The clause in question, which had been inserted into the Book of Discipline in 1972, stated, “The practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching.” Alongside the removal of this statement, delegates also endorsed a declaration affirming marriage as a sacred covenant between two individuals, irrespective of gender, emphasizing a deeper connection with God and the religious community.

Bishop L. Jonathan Holston of the South Carolina Conference acknowledged that the decision would elicit varied reactions within the denomination, already fragmented by the ongoing LGBT debate. He remarked on the diverse responses, ranging from celebration to uncertainty about the future of the denomination and individual congregations.

This pivotal vote was part of a series of decisions made during the conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. Other resolutions included lifting bans on clergy officiating same-sex marriages, ordaining noncelibate homosexuals, and funding LGBT advocacy groups.

The Reconciling Ministries Network, a prominent LGBT advocacy group, hailed the vote as a significant step forward. In an email to supporters, they expressed joy and affirmed the inherent worth of all individuals, irrespective of sexual orientation.

The United Methodist Church has grappled with this contentious issue for decades, with previous attempts to amend the Book of Discipline proving unsuccessful at General Conferences. However, progressive factions within the denomination often disregarded or opposed these rules, leading to internal tensions.

The frustration over this internal resistance prompted many conservative congregations to depart from the denomination in the lead-up to the recent General Conference, clearing the path for the approved changes.

A significant number of these departing congregations have joined the Global Methodist Church, established in 2022 as a conservative alternative. In response to the amendments to the Book of Discipline, the GMC reaffirmed its commitment to traditional Christian teachings and its mission of proclaiming the Gospel and serving its global community of churches and members.