Written by Mark
(Originally published HERE earlier today, June 19, 2014.)
The debate on the marriage issue is underway.
10-07 A motion to appoint a 2 year task
force to study the issues of marriage was disapproved.
10-01 Concerning the church’s role in
legal marriage services of Christian covenant was disapproved.
10-03 On issuing an authoritative
interpretation to affirm pastoral discretion
10-04 On performing Christian marriage ceremonies
was approved 61% - 39%.
This was the vote that disappointed and concerns me the
most. By passing this authoritative interpretation, less than 600 commissioners
took away the voices of the 1.7 million Presbyterians who would like a voice
regarding this very controversial and divisive issue. In addition, Roberts
Rules of Order were ignored by those who have been entrusted to protect the
Constitution of the PCUSA. The Authoritative Commission on the Constitution,
the Stated Clerk and the Moderator - even when brought to their attention. We
have just created “local option” for pastors.
10-06 Rescinds the authoritative
interpretation of 1991 concerning teaching elders performing marriages for
same gender couples and sessions permitting such ceremonies in their facilities.
This was passed 76% - 24%.
10-02 Amends the PCUSA Book of Order
to change the language regarding marriage to “marriage involves a unique
commitment between two people, traditionally between a man and a woman, to love
and support each other for the rest of their lives. The sacrificial love that
unites the couple sustains them as faithful and responsible members of the
church and the wider community.” This will now replace W-4.9000 in the Book of
Order and become the entirety of the new section on marriage. Passed 71% - 29%.
10-05 Add this language to W-4.9000 of the
Book of Order: “For the purpose of God’s mission, presbyteries and sessions may
define marriage as a civil contract between two persons within the boundary of
the state law.” Passed 75% - 25%
10-NB Directs the Presbyterian
Mission Agency Board and the Committee on the Office of the General
Assembly to establish a way to bring reconciliation to the church that
would involve visiting each presbytery and serving as a resource for each
presbytery’s discussion of these actions in congregations and the presbytery
at-large and present voices of reconciliation for the unity of the church.
While 2/3 of the commissioners are rejoicing, 1/3 of us are
grieving for our denomination that has departed us and scriptural authority.
If my people, who are
called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and
turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will
forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
YOU CAN CONTINUE TO FOLLOW MARK'S POSTS ON HIS BLOG: The Plumb Line.
