As the third day of the ELCA National Assembly is now well on its way, the environment and discussion of those gathered (roughly 1050 voting members) has turned quite heated. The source of contention resides within a strong disagreement concerning homosexuality, specifically, the blessing of couples' who are in committed, monogamous, same-sex relationships AND the ordaination (or at least option to) of individuals who are in committed, monogamous, same-sex relationships.
Back in the Spring, the ELCA National Church Council proposed that the vote on these Recommendations should require a simple majority. Much discussion and disagreement ensued around the question of whether or not these Recommendations should rather require a 2/3s vote (the usual requirement given to Constitutional and divisive subjects).
The direction in which the Assembly is headed has now been unveiled through a vote on Monday evening. On Monday, an amendment to require a 2/3s vote on the Recommendations was voted down by a vote of 57% against and 43% for. This motion means that the Recommendations will now need only 51% to pass.
At Calvary, we have overwhelmingly voted to be a 'confessing' church...as such, we believe that sex should be between one man and one woman in the bonds of marriage. Certainly, this vote will be a very unfortunate if it is passed. Please pray for the Assembly.
- Pastor Phil
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