Thursday, August 27, 2009

Full Communion Does Not Open the Door for Gay Clergy in the UMC


In a recent article about the Full Communion agreement between the United Methodist Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, I raised the question of what the ELCA's new position on gay clergy would mean for the UMC. It seems that both denominations have been quick to clarify that the new ELCA position does not in any way compromise the position of the United Methodist Church.

The United Methodist Church has, for decades, in continuity with Scripture and the historic Church, maintained the position that homosexual practice is "incompatible with Christian teaching," and that "self-avoid practicing homosexuals are not to be certified as candidates, ordained as ministers or appointed to serve in the United Methodist Church." That position will continue to be upheld by the United Methodists and will be respected by the Lutherans.

For more information, click here.

No comments: