Saturday, May 14, 2011

Presbyterians begin to make sense of new policy


From San Antonio-

In the wake of the decision this week to allow partnered and non-celibate gays and lesbians to serve as clergy in the Presbyterian Church USA, the 158 congregations in the South Central Texas district have begun the difficult task of sorting out the impact.
As expected, given the emotionally charged views of homosexuality and the Bible, some are upset while others are celebrating.

The process to implement the change across the region will be intentionally slow and methodical, many pastors said, to allow for lay and clergy to talk and listen. They are mindful of the discord experienced by their fellow Protestant denominations after opening up the pulpit to include gay people.

For more than a dozen years at national gatherings, the Presbyterian Church USA lacked enough votes to end its ban on church leaders in same-sex relationships. But earlier this week, a majority of supportive presbyteries — the denomination’s regional units — was reached.

Read more:

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/religion/article/Presbyterians-begin-to-make-sense-of-new-policy-1379175.php#ixzz1MK3BmraS

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