Today I am thinking
about the preliminary report of the ELCA Task Group on the blessing of
same-sex unions and the ordination of non-celibate gay pastors. The
report is due out on the 13th of this month. About a decade or so ago
a sexuality report was released two weeks before it was sent to
congregations and pastors. Thus all of us were a bit surprised to
receive the report first in our daily newspaper. This is not supposed
to happen with the current report.
Since this
preliminary report will be coming our way let’s remember some things
regarding it:
The report from the
task group on the 13th is not the final decision of the church.
The report will
discussed by the whole church over the coming months and there will be
opportunity to respond with your concerns, questions, etc.
Specific opportunity
to comment will be offered at our Virginia Synod Assembly this year.
Finally, let’s
remember that this is a concern of the church. That means, since we
are the body of Christ, we can disagree with one another without being
disagreeable. Some folks may feel that this subject should not even be
discussed. Certainly that is one perspective. Others may be strongly
opposing blessing same-sex unions or the ordination of non-celibate
gay pastors. Still others may support this. Wherever your perspective
is, as the church, we desire to uphold our oneness in Christ and while
we may disagree, we do it in a manner that is not disagreeable.
I hope to have copies
of the report on the small table in the rear of the sanctuary on
Sunday morning. Be looking for them. Do give your response to the
church.
There will be more
discussion of this in our future, I am sure.
Peace, Pastor Holley