Hot news: lesbian minister wins appeal

I normally stay away from United Methodist politics, but there’s some good news that’s making its way through the blogosphere. Well, I think it’s good but other’s won’t and it’ll be divisive and people will hue and cry. Of course, there would be hueing and crying either way.

Appeals committee reverses church trial verdict in Stroud case

Irene Elizabeth “Beth” Stroud, who was found guilty of violating United Methodist church law and had her clergy credentials withdrawn last December, won her appeal in a decision announced April 29.

. . . .

The clergy court had found her guilty of violating denomination law, which forbids the ordination and appointment of “self-avowed practicing homosexuals.” Stroud had disclosed that she was living in a committed relationship with another woman.

Paul Wilczynski has written; Dave at Southern Liberal Methodist has too and notes ” the statement that para. 304.3 violates the first restrictive rule {makes a new doctrine or standard) is an interesting twist.” To which I have nothing to add.

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