The United Methodist Book of Discipline, the denomination’s law book, since 1972 has proclaimed the practice of homosexuality “incompatible with Christian teaching.”
The book prohibits United Methodist churches from hosting and clergy from performing “ceremonies that celebrate homosexual unions.” Officiating at same-sex unions is a chargeable offense under the Discipline.
The 2012 General Conference rejected efforts to change that language, including a proposal to say the church was in disagreement about homosexuality.
The Book of Discipline states that marriage is between a man and a woman. It also affirms that all people are of sacred worth, that all are in need of the church’s ministry, and that God’s grace is available to all. The church implores congregations and families not to reject gay and lesbian members and friends.
Read full coverage of sexuality and the church.
– Heather Hahn, United Methodist News Service.