After several months of prayer, study, conversation, and discernment, Highlands UMC members and active participants will vote this Sunday, May 17, on whether to become a Reconciling Congregation and adopt a public statement of welcome and affirmation of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered persons in the life and leadership of our church. This is a natural extension and expression of the identity of what has been a welcoming congregation for many years, but since so many churches are not fully affirming, our church leadership has determined that the time has come to prayerfully consider making a public statement.
After worship, instead of our usual coffee/fellowship hour, we will have a potluck lunch. You can call the church office (303-477-5857) to find out what kind of dish the Hospitality Committee suggests you bring (based on last name), but if you have a specialty that doesn't match your assignment, go ahead and bring what works for you! All are welcome to enjoy the food and fellowship.
When it comes time for the vote, we ask that only those who have been actively involved at Highlands for at least the past 4 months (since we announced these criteria in January) fill out a ballot. Plans are underway to offer an absentee vote option; more information should be available by Thursday morning.
Please continue to keep our church in prayer as we seek to know and follow the Spirit's leading. If you have questions, you may contact Pastor Betty or Pastor Kerry via the church office.
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2 comments:
I am a United Methodist pastor in Pennsylvania. I recently came across your church's website and the proclamation of inclusion of people practicing homosexuality into all aspects of church life and leadership.
I must say I was taken aback by such a brazen disregard, not only for the clear teaching of scripture (I'm assuming you think Paul was misguided when he said those who behave this way will not inherit the kingdom of God in 1 Corinthians 6?), but also for the United Methodist Book of Discipline. To teach people that practicing homosexuality is morally acceptable in the eyes of God is neither Christian nor Methodist. In addition to Paul, what do you think John Wesley would say about this issue? Do you really think you are more in tune with the Holy Spirit these two men?
I would also add that if you are going to keep your proclamation of inclusion, you should add to it, as it is incomplete in its current form. If you welcome all who practice homosexuality into all aspects of church life and leadership, then certainly you would not want to discriminate against those who practice, promote and identify themselves with other forms of non-traditional sexualities. Maybe you could have a couple in leadership who practice an "open marriage," or perhaps you could appoint as your youth director a local college student who has five different sexual partners every week, not because he has no will to die to the sinful nature and live for Christ, but because he is of a "promiscuous orientation." Also, be sure not to exclude those of a "trans-generational orientation." Maybe your church sanctuary would be an appropriate setting for the wedding of a 45-year-old man and his 12-year-old bride.
I know these types of "orientations" may seem distasteful to some, and that they too are clearly shown in scripture to be perverse and contrary to God's intention for sexuality. But then who are we to impose our scripture and our view of morality on others?
In Christ,
Mike Mitchell
Dear Mike,
If your tone suggested you were interested in actually understanding our point of view, I would be happy to be in conversation with you. However, you make assumptions and generalizations here that lead me to believe you are posting not for dialogue, but only to proclaim your own perspective. I will only respond by saying that we take the Bible, and John Wesley, quite seriously at our church, but we also know that the Holy Spirit leads the people of God to new understandings over time - from the need for circumcision to the abolition of slavery to the validity of women's ordination. John Wesley once said that whenever two passages of Scripture seem to be in conflict, he prioritized the one that upheld the teaching that God is love. That is what we strive to live out at Highlands.
Grace and peace in Christ,
Pastor Kerry
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