On February 26, the United Methodist General Conference 2019 delegates passed The Traditional Plan 438 to 384. The judicial council raised several constitutionality issues. They addressed these issues with amendments to the Traditional Plan.
The Rev. Tim McClendon, South Carolina, called for a vote on the Traditional Plan as amended. This affirms the church’s current bans on ordaining LGBTQ clergy and officiating at or hosting same-sex marriage.
Opponents mounted a last-ditch effort to bring back the One Church Plan. Delegates defeated the One Church Plan by a vote of 449-374. The Rev. Tom Berlin, Virginia Conference, spoke for a minority report for the One Church Plan.
Berlin told delegates that approving the One Church Plan did not force any pastor or church to perform same-sex marriages. Nor did it force anyone to change what they believe about the Bible. In addition the plan would allow conferences to ordain LGBTQ pastors. It would also allow churches to host, and pastors to officiate at same-sex marriages.
“If the Traditional Plan is voted in, it will be a virus that will make the American church very sick” he said. “Many pastors are going to leave, many annual conference will leave. … There will be trials, and they will be on the news. The only news about the church will be about people we don’t serve.”
Where Will We Go From Here?
Adopting the Traditional Plan is yet another milestone in the evolution of the Methodist Church. Time will tell how this ultimately unfolds. Will the church decide on an amicable separation similar to the Lutheran and Presbyterian churches?
I have family and friends on both sides of this controversial issue. Personally I disagree with the church’s position. I wish they would have adopted the One Church Plan. However, I understand and respect their decision. As Methodists we may be divided on this issue. However, we will survive.
My first encounter with a gay man came in the mid-1990s. He worked for me. We were on a business trip to San Francisco where we talked about his partner who died from AIDS. I was deeply moved by his story. Prior to that conversation I was admittedly a bit homophobic. His testimony put a human face on the issue for me. Since then I have met many gay and lesbian individuals and couples. Many of whom I consider good friends.
Regardless of what happens to the church I will try to live faithfully by the example shown by Jesus Christ.
John 13:34
So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.
Thanks for your very thoughtful comments from your personal experience. Many of us Methodists share your views. And yes, we will survive in spite of the recent vote.
I believe and try to live by John 13:34. It doesn’t leave room for bigotry, rasism, homophobia, and the like. As always, thank you for the words.
Just because you don’t agree with a lifestyle doesn’t mean you hate the person. What ever happened to hate the sin not the sinner. I to have friends and relatives that live the lifestyle and I love them.
Jesus was inclusive. Your song choice is spot on. THEY will know we are Christians by our love. Nuf said.
Thanks for your heartfelt comments, Brad. I too agree with you.
Thank you for the message of love 💕
Thank you for you your insight and comments. I agree with you and will continue to pray for unity, compassion and love. We need to remember God’s commandment – The Shema- Love the Lord your God with with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your strength AND Love your neighbor as yourself. Grace and peace to you.