General Conference 2004

Pittsburgh, PA

United Methodist General Conference retains stance against homosexuality

PITTSBURGH -- The United Methodist General Conference voted this afternoon to maintain its present stance against homosexuality. The 955 delegates vote 579 to 376 (60.6 to 39.4 percent) to maintain the church's stance against homosexuality as part of the Social Principles of the church (paragraph 161 G). The conference voted new language that reads: "The United Methodist Church does not condone the practice of homosexuality and considers this practice incompatible with Christian teaching. We affirm that God's grace is available to all, and we will seek to live together in Christian community.

We implore families and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends. We commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all persons."

A complete story will be posted later.