Standing Committee Answer
to the Northern Ohio District Query:
Licensing/Ordination of Homosexual Persons
to the Ministry in the Church of the Brethren
The Standing Committee acknowledges that it is not of
one mind at this time. Nevertheless, in order to function together
effectively as a denominational body, we must set a standard for our life
together.
Standing Committee recommends to the 2002 Annual Conference
that the 2002 Annual Conference of the Church of the Brethren continue
to affirm the 1983 decision known as "Human Sexuality from a Christian
Perspective." We understand that paper to conclude that homosexual
practice is unacceptable behavior in the church and therefore implied to
be sin. We also understand the 1983 paper to have strong encouragements
for the church to be open and welcoming, and to develop helpful and compassionate
ministries toward homosexual persons. We would urge that the balance
represented in these two primary components of the 1983 paper be maintained
in the Church of the Brethren.
In answering Query #3 on the licensing and ordination
of homosexual persons, we recognize that the 1983 paper does not address
this particular issue. However, it is our understanding that the
conduct expectations of the general membership, as stated above, should
most surely also be expected of those licensed or ordained.
Therefore, we consider it inappropriate
to license or ordain to the Christian ministry any persons who are known
to be engaging in homosexual practices, and will not recognize the licensing
and ordination of such persons in the Church of the Brethren.
Approved 650-274.