Sunday, August 9, 2015

Some denominations still unsettled over same-sex marriage

From Illinois-

After meeting in California and moving to Springfield two years ago, Leda Kozikowski and Lisa Eggold didn't necessarily expect to have a church wedding.

But after finding a spiritual home and affirming community in First Presbyterian Church, along with the legalization of same-sex marriage in Illinois, those plans changed.


"It was spiritually deepening to get married in our own church and by our own pastor (the Rev. Clifford Hayes)," Leda Kozikowski Eggold said.


Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), of which First Presbyterian is a member, is the largest Protestant denomination to allow same-sex marriage.


Other denominations are grappling with the issue, especially in light of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in late June legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide, while still others have dug in their heels.


In the 12.1 million-member United Methodist Church, a potential schism is developing prior to next year's General Conference in Portland, Oregon, where the question will be taken up.


While Episcopalians voted to permit same-sex marriages beginning in late November, Springfield Bishop Daniel Martins is one of a handful of leaders not allowing the new canons in his diocese.


More here-

http://www.sj-r.com/article/20150808/NEWS/150809594/2002/LIFESTYLE

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