United Methodist Church repeals ban on LGBTQ clergy and same-sex weddings

SOURCE www.npr.org
The United Methodist Church has voted to repeal its ban on LGBTQ clergy and same-sex weddings, with overwhelming approval from delegates at the General Conference. The decision comes after years of debate and division within the church, leading to the formation of more conservative congregations and a regionalization plan to allow different geographic regions to set their own rules on LGBTQ issues.

Key Points

  • Overwhelming approval (692 to 51) from delegates at the General Conference
  • Regionalization plan allows different geographic regions to set their own rules on LGBTQ clergy and same-sex weddings
  • Spontaneous celebrations erupted after the vote in Charlotte

Pros

  • Inclusion and acceptance of LGBTQ clergy and same-sex weddings within the church
  • Resolution of a longstanding issue that caused division and hurt within the United Methodist Church

Cons

  • Departure of some conservative congregations from the denomination