by Rev. Laurie Bruce, co-chair LGBTQA+ Support Group
General Conference of the United Methodist Church (delegates from churches around the world) met in April and voted yes to affirm three important issues for the LGBTQA+ community!
All anti-LGBTQA+ language was removed from the Book of Discipline which is the book of beliefs and rules of the United Methodist Church.
LGBTQA+ individuals are now allowed to be ordained as clergy in the United Methodist Church.
United Methodist clergy now have the option to perform marriages for all LGBTQA+ couples.
These decisions are historic in affirming to be inclusive of all of God's children and I rejoice that our United Methodist Church has said that all of God's children are welcome and deserving of God's love!
As an addendum to the above information from General Conference, Pastor Paul and I want to acknowledge that for all of those who are celebrating this decision, there are also people who are disappointed and hurt by the decision of General Conference to change the church’s stance on this issue. We realize what a divisive issue this is for so many people and that is why Pastor Paul and I will continue to lead the church to stay focused on the mission and vision of RRUMC.