United Methodist Church stands firm against gay marriage

The United Methodist Church has maintained its stance against same-sex marriage and appointing homosexuals in ministry positions.

At the annual United Methodist Church General Conference held at the Oregon Convention Center, members of the church discussed about concerns regarding gay marriage and homosexual ministers. An LGBT group submitted a proposal that the format of talks be revised, but most of the church members did not approve it.

Of the 864 members who attended the conference, 57 percent rejected the idea being pushed by the LGBT group that the church's Rule 44 be changed. In their proposed format, discussions will be held by breaking down the session into smaller groups.

Although the new format seemed harmless, some members of the Methodist Church viewed it as a "test" on whether the church will allow homosexuals to serve as clergymen. They also said it was an indicator of whether the church will be open to gay marriage.

However, the LGBT group maintained the proposed format was just a form of defense after they were apparently ignored during a previous conference.

The argument regarding Rule 44 became so intense at one point that Margie Briggs, a delegate from the Missouri Annual Conference, said they were already "confusing God."

However, there are others who are in favor of the LGBT group's proposal. Dorothee Benz, a delegate from the New York Annual Conference, said Rule 44 should have paved the way for a more open discussion.

"I think Rule 44 is the best chance we have for an honest conversation and to move past this fear of talking about LGBTQ people," Benz said.

The issues on homosexuality have stirred up divisive arguments within the Methodist Church. The Council of Bishops president Warner H. Brown, Jr. attempted to address the potential conflict at the start of the conference.

"As we discuss our different opinions about same-gender relationships, may we remember our duelling points of view are anchored in our desire to be faithful," Brown said.

He encouraged church members to "seek the path of unity" even as they held fast to what their conscience dictates in the face of contradicting views regarding the homosexuality issue.