Retired Bishops speak

The recent statement issued by 32 retired United Methodist Bishops is hugely significant! These retired bishops (though 'retired' they are bishops for life) issued a statement that calls for change of the language in our current Book of Discipline: “…The practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching. Therefore self-avowed practicing homosexuals are not to be certified as candidates, ordained as ministers, or appointed to serve in The United Methodist Church.” ¶304.3 We all know that this statement is not these Bishops speaking "for" the Church, but I am so glad they are speaking "to" the Church!

There are several reasons why this language should be changed. For one, it is inconsistent with the language in our Social Principles. There the language is "since we CONSIDER . . . " It is absolutely inconsistent for us to claim in one place that we 'consider' something and then in another place we definitively say 'it is.' This is double-speak and it is untenable. This glaring inconsistency is evidence of our ambiguous and divisive positions.

Second, this language should change because it is not indicative of our wider Church's views. To be sure, there is a vocal (and fiscal) majority in certain regions where our current language is not problematic. Sadly, for some this language is not strong enough. For too long we have allowed fundamentalist voices in our denomination to hold sway in our legislative processes. This stronghold is more about political power than it is about responsible, historical hermeneutics. The vote at the 2008 General Conference was the closest ever and surely within the next two quadrennial periods, this position to change the language will become a majority.

Finally, in a denomination that continues to bemoan decline in membership, it just makes good sense not to exclude a segment of our population with tremendous resources (not just money). We all know that for decades, we have already had countless members (both lay and clergy) who identify as GLBTQ who have served effectively and faithfully in our churches. It is high time that we remove the shroud of secrecy and shame and allow our sisters and brothers to live in the fullness of their calling and identity. We already affirm that all persons are created in the imago dei, so why should we continue to exclude? Inclusiveness makes good sense and our church would be enhanced if we truly included all persons ("all means all").

I am very grateful to our retired Bishops for taking this stance. Hopefully many more active Bishops will follow suit and speak out for justice and inclusion. In times when our denomination is going through many changes--some of which are eroding our connectional, episcopal system--this is something that makes me both proud and hopeful to be a United Methodist!