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Commissioners are scheduled to vote on a number of proposals at the Presbyterian Church USA’s semi-annual General Conference, which is being held in Salt Lake City, Utah, from June 25 to July 4. One proposed amendment to the denomination’s constitution would ban alleged discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Committee members made some changes to the proposal and approved sending the amendment to the General Conference for a vote. Committee members rewrote the language that required candidates for ordination to be screened for their ability to meet non-discrimination requirements. Instead, candidates will be screened only for their ability to ensure participation and representation in the church.
What is the denomination’s current position on individuals who identify as LGBTQ? PC(USA), often confused with the more conservative Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), is known for allowing LGBTQ-identified people to be ordained as pastors and elders in churches. The denomination has supported same-sex marriage since 1978, according to its website. In 2018, lawmakers approved a proposal to recognize individuals who claim a gender identity that is opposite to their biological sex and an apology to members for the church’s previous stance of not welcoming LGBTQ people.
What else are you planning to vote on? Other suggestions include making church members aware of resources related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. For example, Why Palestine Matters, the Fight to End Colonialismas a way to end policies that the PC(USA) characterizes as Israeli apartheid. The General Assembly is also expected to vote on a proposal calling for action on gun violence.
Learn more: Read Colin J. Smothers’ column in WORLD Opinions about the PC(USA)’s efforts to impose LGBTQ-affirmation across the denomination.
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