A Statement of Respectful Opposition

To the decision of the 2002 Annual Conference on
Licensing/Ordination of Homosexual Persons to the Ministry in the Church of the Brethren

We are members of the Church of the Brethren. We are loyal and committed to the ideals of the Church of the Brethren. We believe that the church of Jesus Christ welcomes all persons and calls out leaders according to their gifts for ministry. Therefore, we express our opposition to the decision of the 2002 Annual Conference to categorically exclude some persons, namely "persons who are known to be engaging in homosexual practices," from set-apart ministry. Our opposition is based on the following:

1. Our understanding of the Biblical witness—God created all humanity in God's image (Gen. 1:27). God loves all people (John 3:16-17). And God desires righteousness and justice (Micah 6:8).
2. Our understanding of human biology—Homosexuality is a form of human sexuality. It is a natural and normal orientation for some people.
3. Our understanding of call—All members are ministers of the Gospel. We should not limit God's call by decisions of Annual Conference, but must listen to and consider, on its own merits, each call that comes through the church or to an individual (1 Cor. 12).
4. Our understanding of decision-making—We do not push for action on controversial and troubling issues without study and thoughtful discussion where all voices are heard in love. Foremost to this discussion is an atmosphere of prayer, humility and discernment of the Spirit (Romans 12).

We urge Annual Conference to reconsider this decision, following procedures for handling strongly controversial issues as established in "Guidelines for Special Response Queries" found in the 1988 Annual Conference Minutes. We also urge districts to refrain from implementing this decision. We support congregations and individuals who, as a matter of conscience, refuse to participate in its implementation.

(This statement and its signatures will be presented to the Standing Committee of the 2003 Annual Conference, not as a business item but as an indication of the concern of many in the Church of the Brethren. If you support this statement, please sign it and indicate your congregation, district, and the date. Thank you.)

Sign the statement online

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