United Methodist delegates defeat bid to ease LGBT bans

[left-of-center2012]

The United Methodist Church, America’s second-largest Protestant denomination, faces a likely surge in defections and acts of defiance after delegates at a crucial conference Tuesday rejected a move to ease the faith’s ban on same-sex marriage and ordination of LGBT clergy.

Some supporters of greater LGBT inclusion were in tears, while others vented their anger after delegates, on a 449-374 vote, defeated a proposal that would have let regional and local church bodies decide for themselves on gay-friendly policies.

Formed in a merger in 1968, the United Methodist Church claims about 12.6 million members worldwide, including nearly 7 million in the United States.

While other mainline Protestant denominations, such as the Episcopal and Presbyterian (U.S.A.) churches, have embraced gay-friendly practices, the Methodist church still bans them, though acts of defiance by pro-LGBT clergy have multiplied.

https://www.apnews.com/15f5b291512e4a39a6c93ad9eb1a3ee9

[irisblue]

1. It is sure looking like a split is coming. nt

[bmbmd]

2. I'm gone.

Methodist born and raised, Methodist educated, life-long Methodist lay speaker and Emmaus leader. Now, I'm a free-agent. I will support whatever Phoenix rises from these ashes. Or

[blur256]

3. I found a home in the UCC

To be fair my wife is a minister there, but a lot of their churches are open and affirming. Plus, they have guidance from the overarching ministry but it is up to each church what they believe. I grew up both Presbyterian and Methodist. If I had to go back to one it would be Presbyterians but the Methodists have sank their own ship. I hope the supporters of lgbtq rights break away. For their own sake.