Setting the Stage – The United Methodist Church and Human Sexuality
The United Methodist Church (UMC) has long been a global Christian denomination dedicated to its mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. As one of the largest Protestant denominations in the United States, the UMC is both a deeply rooted institution and a reflection of the broader social, cultural, and political changes in society. For decades, one of the most contentious issues the UMC has faced is its stance on LGBTQ+ inclusion. This digital exhibit explores the UMC’s journey toward full inclusion for LGBTQ+ clergy and members.
The UMC’s engagement with human sexuality began in earnest during the 1970s and 1980s, as social movements for LGBTQ+ rights gained momentum across the United States. Recognizing the growing urgency of these discussions, the church initiated a formal process of study and reflection to guide its congregations. The publication of the Guide to the Study Document on Human Sexuality in 1983 marked a pivotal moment in this process. This guide framed human sexuality as a topic that demanded thoughtful theological engagement, urging church members to use the Wesleyan Quadrilateral—Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience—to navigate the complexities of the issue.
The guide laid out a comprehensive framework for addressing human sexuality in congregations, exploring topics such as biblical teachings, cultural influences, and the intersection of faith and science. It encouraged individuals to see sexuality not as a simple binary of right and wrong but as a multifaceted aspect of human identity that required understanding and compassion. This effort to create space for dialogue was further enriched by publications like Explor- Homosexuality and the Christian, Fall 1975, which delved into the historical and theological underpinnings of Christian attitudes toward homosexuality. Scholars examined biblical texts, historical contexts, and pastoral implications, offering nuanced perspectives on how the church might approach LGBTQ+ issues.
The Social Principles of the United Methodist Church (1980) and the Family Life: A Resolution with Study Guide (1980) both illustrate the UMC’s foundational efforts to provide a theological framework for addressing societal and ethical questions. The Social Principles reflect the denomination’s commitment to engaging with complex issues, including sexuality, marriage, and family, by rooting its stances in scripture, tradition, and social justice principles. Similarly, the Family Life document delves into the church’s evolving understanding of family structures, challenging traditional norms while emphasizing covenantal love and the moral responsibilities of individuals. Both documents set the stage for subsequent debates on LGBTQ+ inclusion by emphasizing the need for compassionate dialogue and ethical reflection. Their focus on family, relationships, and human dignity laid the groundwork for expanding the church’s conversations to include the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and their families.
These resources reveal the UMC’s recognition of the need for education and reflection, even as debates over LGBTQ+ inclusion were beginning to polarize the denomination. They serve as early examples of the church’s attempt to balance its commitment to tradition with a willingness to engage contemporary issues.