The United Methodist Church made a significant decision on Wednesday by lifting a 40-year ban on gay clergy. This measure was passed with an overwhelming majority during a national delegate meeting held in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The UMC General Conference delegates made a significant decision on Wednesday by approving an amended policy that puts an end to the ban on ordaining “self-avowed practicing homosexuals.”
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Delegates have also given their approval to a policy change that prohibits local United Methodist Church congregations from imposing penalties on clergy or churches for conducting same-sex union ceremonies.
Later on Thursday, there is a proposed change that would eliminate the existing church prohibition on clergy providing blessings for same-sex unions.
The church’s proposed change to the LGBTQ+ stance involves removing the phrase “the practice of homosexuality … is incompatible with Christian teaching” from its Social Principles.
After years of ongoing disputes, approximately 25% of United Methodist conservative congregations have made the decision to leave the denomination.
In a statement released prior to the conference that commenced on April 23, the Methodist Church expressed its strong aspiration to promote greater unity within the Church, acknowledging the diverse theological, social, and contextual perspectives held within the denomination. The Church recognizes that it currently stands at a pivotal moment in its history.
The policy that allowed disaffiliation has now expired as of the end of 2023.
The shift left a majority of congregations who were in favor of lifting the ban on gay clergy.
According to The Tennessean, a joyous and exuberant crowd erupted in spontaneous celebration, sharing hymns and embracing one another.
“No one stands alone,” they sang, drawing the circle wide, and widening it even further. This heartfelt song, inspired by the Methodist tradition, has been embraced by LGBTQ Christians as a powerful anthem of unity and inclusivity.
In 2019, the UMC witnessed the departure of conservative churches following the decision to permit congregations to leave on grounds of conscience. These churches were granted the right to keep their church property and assets, provided they obtained official approval to leave before the conclusion of 2023.
Over 40% of congregations in UMC Texas have departed.
