Mar. 3 Reflection: Christian Marriage
Dear Holy Covenant Community,
We are a Reconciling Congregation, celebrating the full inclusion of all persons in the life of the church, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. In fact, in 2010 we celebrate our 20th anniversary of being Reconciling, which we will celebrate throughout the month of June. What a joy to be part of a community that models Jesus’ love for all people.
However, we lament that The United Methodist Church has laws in place restricting the full participation of GLBT families in the life of the church, including prohibiting the celebration of same-sex marriages by clergy and on local church property. Therefore, over a year ago, Holy Covenant formed a Taskforce on Christian Marriage to explore how we could bless and recognize all covenanted relationships-both gay and straight. After study, discernment, prayer, and faithful work, the taskforce has created a DRAFT policy on Christian marriage.
This draft policy proposes that no marriages, gay or straight, will take place in the Holy Covenant sanctuary, nor will they be performed by the pastor. The exchange of vows, rings, and/or legal marriage will happen outside of our property. Then, a worship service that reaffirms the covenant will take place in our sanctuary, with our community.
We want your feedback on this policy. Please sign-up for one of 12 listening sessions happening in the city in small group formats. Take a moment to sign-up here, right now.
Your input, perspective, and prayers are integral to this church community and to this process. At each session, you will be able to read the draft policy, discuss, ask questions, and pray. The goal is to gain feedback and for you to be heard; no policy will be adopted or voted on at this time. We want to make sure all people in the church are able to voice their perspectives. We will have an all-church conversation on the policy on Sunday, April 18, after the 11:15 service. Please mark your calendars and join us for this conversation.
Many thanks to David Braden, who leads this taskforce with Christian witness and strong leadership, and to the members of the taskforce. If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback, please don’t hesitate to be in touch with David or me. I want to be a resource for you during this time of discernment and am here to provide a safe space for you to be heard. Most of all, please be in prayer for our church (both local and global) during this process.
See you on Sunday, and think about who you can bring with you.
Grace and Peace,
Kate
