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Letter to the Clergy of the Rocky Mountain Conference
This document is a letter from Bishop Melvin E. Wheatley Jr., dated November 20, 1981, addressing clergy colleagues of the Rocky Mountain Conference of The United Methodist Church. The letter provides a detailed theological, disciplinary, and personal rationale for appointing Julian Rush, a declared homosexual, as associate pastor and Minister to Community Concerns at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Denver. It represents a significant moment in the church's history, reflecting the evolving debates over homosexuality and ordination within the UMC.
The letter responds to concerns and questions about the disciplinary basis for appointing a self-identified homosexual pastor. It references the 1980 Book of Discipline and General Conference actions to justify the appointment, emphasizing that there is no explicit prohibition against ordination or appointment of homosexual persons.
Bishop Wheatley draws a distinction between sexual orientation and behavior, arguing that neither heterosexuality nor homosexuality is inherently virtuous or sinful. Instead, he frames both as "mysterious gifts of God’s grace" and emphasizes personal moral and spiritual responsibility in how individuals express their orientation.
This letter is a significant artifact of the UMC’s history, illustrating the theological, institutional, and personal dimensions of its debates over LGBTQ+ inclusion. It highlights the complexities of interpreting church law and doctrine in the context of evolving social norms and the challenges of balancing institutional authority with individual conscience.
From an archival perspective, the document serves as evidence of the church’s internal struggles during a period of significant cultural and theological change. It provides insight into how progressive leaders like Bishop Wheatley navigated institutional frameworks to advocate for greater inclusivity while addressing opposition within the denomination. -
California-Nevada United Methodist Review, April 2, 1999
The document, California-Nevada United Methodist Review from April 2, 1999, reflects the theological, pastoral, and social challenges facing the California-Nevada Conference of the United Methodist Church (UMC). A significant portion of the publication addresses the ongoing controversy surrounding the January 16, 1999, holy union of Jeanne Barnett and Ellie Charlton, officiated by 69 UMC clergy in open defiance of church law. This event highlights broader denominational debates over LGBTQ+ inclusion and pastoral authority within the church.
The document captures the fallout of the holy union ceremony and the subsequent filing of complaints against the participating clergy. The controversy underscores tensions between adherence to the Book of Discipline and individual acts of conscience by clergy seeking to affirm same-sex couples.
This document is evidence of the UMC’s ongoing struggle to reconcile doctrinal tradition with calls for inclusivity and justice. It provides a detailed account of one of the most visible acts of resistance to church law on LGBTQ+ issues in the late 20th century, illustrating the personal, communal, and institutional dynamics at play. -
Ordaining Homosexuals: The Issues
This item explores the complex topic of homosexuality and ordination within the context of Christian ethics, particularly in The United Methodist Church. Milligan opens by rejecting two extreme positions: outright rejection and hatred of homosexuals on one side, and the dismissal of any obstacles to ordination on the other. Instead, he advocates for a balanced approach that takes into account compassion, justice, and the spirit of the gospel. He acknowledges that no definitive Christian position can be claimed and stresses the importance of forming thoughtful, prayerful opinions rather than dogmatic conclusions.
This document offers a valuable glimpse into the theological debates and social dynamics of the mid-1970s, a period marked by increasing visibility and activism within the LGBTQ+ community. It provides insight into how churches grappled with changing societal norms and the tension between tradition and progress.
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