MINNESOTA – The Presbyterian Church has voted to allow the ordination of openly gay and lesbian clergy, elders and deacons. The church is one of the largest Christian denominations in the country with more than 2.3 million members and about 11,000 congregations.
The change, which opens up the possibility that people in same-sex relationships can be considered for ordination, is expected to take effect starting July 10. It is the latest move by a Protestant denomination toward the inclusion of gay and lesbian clergy.
After the vote, Rev. Dr. Janet Edwards, a Presbyterian minister in Pittsburgh, Pa. said, “I see this as an opportunity to build a stronger church. Faithful and qualified lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Presbyterians will be able to openly serve the church with energy, intelligence, imagination and love.”
On hearing the news, Equality California Institute Boardmember Rev. Abel Lopez, All Saints Church, Pasadena, Calif. issued the following statement, “The Presbyterian Church USA joins the United Church of Christ, the Episcopalian Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as denominations that have eliminated official barriers to full membership, leadership and service for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons. This is an occasion of great celebration throughout the globe and especially for the Church’s ability to continue the work of co-creating an inclusive world in which justice, peace and love are enjoyed by all and not just a few. I am absolutely rejoicing in the work of God’s spirit and deeply grateful to those who throughout the years have worked so hard to make the church an image of the inclusive and unconditional love of God for all persons.”
Last year, the Episcopal Church consecrated its first openly lesbian bishop – the Rev. Mary Glasspool of Los Angeles.
