US Methodists Ignore Rules, Elect Openly Gay Bishop
by Joseph Pelletier, Church Militant:
The United Methodist Church is electing their first openly gay bishop.
In a decision Friday night at a conference in Scottsdale, Arizona for the church’s Western Division, the Rev. Karen Oliveto was elevated to role of bishop, a move deemed controversial due to the church’s current position on homosexuality. According to the church’s 2012 Book of Discipline, “[t]he practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching.” It continues to note “self-avowed practicing homosexuals are not to be certified as candidates, ordained as ministers, or appointed to serve in The United Methodist Church.”
“This election raises significant concerns and questions of church polity and unity,” admits Bruce R. Ough, president of the church’s Council of Bishops in a statement following the vote. “[Individuals] will no doubt have questions as we find ourselves in a place where we have never been.”
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