United Methodist Church Makes History: Repealing Longstanding Ban on LGBTQ Clergy and Same-sex Marriages
The United Methodist Church (UMC) made a historic shift in its stance towards the LGBTQ community during its General Conference held in Charlotte, North Carolina. The church repealed its longstanding ban on gay clergy and same-sex marriages, marking a significant change for this major Protestant denomination.
The UMC's decision to lift the bans came after years of internal debates and disagreements over LGBTQ inclusion within the church. The issue had led to a split among congregations, with some leaving the denomination in 2020 to form more conservative groups.
On May 1, 2024, delegates voted overwhelmingly (692-51) to eliminate parts of the Traditional Plan from the Book of Discipline that aimed at strengthening restrictions on same-sex marriage and self-avowed practicing gay clergy. This move paved the way for a more inclusive church policy towards LGBTQ individuals.
The repeal was met with jubilation among members, who celebrated this historic moment in the UMC's history. Some delegates expressed relief after years of debating and fighting over this issue within their community.
LGBTQ advocates hailed the decision as a victory for inclusivity and acceptance within the church. The United Methodist News Service reported that members cheered, cried, and hugged each other after the vote. Marilyn Murphy, an observer from South Carolina's conference, shared her relief after witnessing this momentous change.
The UMC's decision to repeal its bans on LGBTQ clergy and same-sex marriages is a significant step towards creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all members. The church will continue to debate further changes during the ongoing General Conference session.