05/06/2004: "They mean what they say"

Just in case there are still some in Methodism who don't understand the meaning of the word "no":

In a vote of 455-445, the delegates changed Paragraph 2702 to state: "A bishop, clergy member of an annual conference, local pastor, clergy on honorable or administrative location, or diaconal minister may choose a trial when charged (subject to the statute of limitations in 2702.4) with one or more of the following offenses: a) immorality, including but not limited to, not being celibate in singleness or not being faithful in a heterosexual marriage; b) practices declared by the United Methodist Church to be incompatible with Christian teaching, including but not limited to: being a self-avowed practicing homosexual; or conducting ceremonies which celebrate homosexual unions; or performing same-sex wedding ceremonies."

The closeness of the vote was an indication that at least some people who object to the UMC approving homosexual practice were also wary of being too explicit, or too unequivocal. But a majority is a majority, and this should pretty well shut the door. Of course, there will still be those who will maintain that "not" means "may," or "incompatible" means "disputed" or whatever. But there will be no doubt whatsoever (if there ever really was) about their refusal to abide by the law of the church.

Replies: 2 Comments

on Friday, May 7th, Alexander Scott said

Isn't this the point where revisionists do the "civil disobedience" thing, establish the "facts on the ground", and then dare anyone to be so barbaric as to punish them for it? I doubt liberals will obey this ruling anymore than conservatives would obey a mandate to kiss the emperor's ring.

on Friday, May 7th, Athanasius said

I'm sure you're right, though I'm also sure that there are plenty of conservatives more than willing to bring as many charges against as many clergy and bishops as necessary to make the new provisions stick.

Bill Hinson, in a talk to UMDecision Wednesday, suggested it's time liberals admit defeat and withdraw to form a new gay-friendly denomination. I doubt they will, but it's worth thinking about.