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 took shape in the 1970s and 1980s, as LGBTQ+ rights movements gained momentum in the United States. In response, the church initiated formal studies to guide its congregations, notably publishing the Guide to the Study Document on Human Sexuality in 1983. This guide urged theological reflection using the Wesleyan Quadrilateral—Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience—to navigate the complexities of sexuality. It presented sexuality as a multifaceted aspect of human identity, encouraging understanding and dialogue. Resources like Explor: Homosexuality and the Christian (1975) deepened this effort, exploring biblical, historical, and pastoral perspectives on LGBTQ+ issues.
Foundational documents like the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church (1980) and Family Life: A Resolution with Study Guide (1980) further illustrated the denomination’s commitment to addressing societal questions through theological reflection. These resources examined sexuality, marriage, and family, emphasizing covenantal love, human dignity, and ethical responsibility. By creating space for dialogue and education, these efforts set the stage for future debates on LGBTQ+ inclusion while seeking to balance tradition with engagement in contemporary issues.