The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead

From the Forum of Fargo-Moorhead:

ELCA proposal could pave way for clergy to lead active homosexual lifestyles
A report released at noon today by a task force for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America contains a proposal that, if adopted by the church-wide Assembly in August, would clear the way for individuals in "publicly accountable, lifelong, monogamous, same-gender relationships" to serve as clergy.

A report released at noon today by a task force for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America contains a proposal that, if adopted by the church-wide Assembly in August, would clear the way for individuals in "publicly accountable, lifelong, monogamous, same-gender relationships" to serve as clergy.

However, the resolution also allows for individual synods, congregations, committes and others to follow their own conscsiences when it comes to approving or disapproving practicing homosexuals for office or roster.

The report will go to the ELCA Church Council, which meets at the end of March and has the authority to alter the resolutions. Assuming the council goes forward with the resolutions, local synod assemblies could also propose changes to the resolutions, affirm them or propose competing resolutions.

The church currently prohibits the rostering of individuals who engage in same-gender sexual activity. Policy does permit individuals who identify themselves as homosexual but are not involved in same-gender sexual activity to serve in the clergy.

Read more about this in Friday's Forum.