Methodist Church Urges For Gender-Neutral Language

Is this a step back?

The Methodist Church in Great Britain recently introduced an “Inclusive Language Guide,” advising its members to refrain from using gendered terms like “husband” and “wife.” The guidance aims to be more inclusive by avoiding assumptions about people’s lives that may not align with traditional gender norms.

According to the guidance, Christians should engage in conversations that might be challenging, acknowledge exclusionary practices, listen with humility, repent of hurtful language, and be mindful of their speech and writing in the spirit of Christ. The guidance will undergo updates every six months.

The overarching principle highlighted is the vast diversity in the expression of God’s creation in human life. It suggests that terms like “husband” and “wife,” while seemingly innocuous, might not represent the reality for many individuals. The guide proposes alternative terms such as “parent,” “partner,” “child,” and “carer.”

Additionally, the guide outlines various categories of marginalized or demonized groups, advising Methodists to employ sensitive and inclusive language. It discourages ageist language, encourages the use of “ethnicity” instead of “race,” recommends avoiding language emphasizing immigration status or English proficiency, and cautions against antisemitic and Islamophobic rhetoric.

Furthermore, it urges careful consideration of language concerning disabled, neurodiverse individuals, and those with mental health issues. Notably, the guide stresses the importance of inclusive language for the LGBTQ+ community, advocating for the use of preferred pronouns and respecting individuals’ chosen identities.

In 2021, the Methodist Church passed resolutions supporting same-sex unions and recognizing cohabiting couples. The guide underscores the significance of using individuals’ chosen language as an affirmation of their identity as God’s children.

The guidance suggests references to organizations like GLAAD and Stonewall for additional resources on inclusive language. A spokesperson for the denomination expressed pride in the guide, emphasizing its role in facilitating respectful conversations and bridging differences in life experiences among church members.

Regarding gendered language in Methodist marriage ceremonies, the spokesperson clarified that couples discuss with the minister how they wish to be referred to during the service, ensuring the ceremony aligns with their identities.

However, Father Calvin Robinson criticized the Methodist Church’s guidance, labeling it a neo-Marxist attempt to dismantle traditional norms. He argued that this ideology is incompatible with Christianity, urging the Church to choose between embracing this ideology or upholding God’s order.