Comments on: Judicial Council sends controversial cases back to conferences

By: Patricia Willford

Patricia Willford — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 17:34:33 +0000

At age 85, a lifetime United Methodist, I find it appalling that many clergy — retired or otherwise — believe they need pay no attention to our Discipline in regards to homosexual marriage, or avowed lesbian/gay persons becoming United Methodist ministers. Our own Bishop Hoshibata was one of the demonstrators at the Annual Conference this year. How sad he and others neglect Bible facts and manage to distort Bible truths to suit their own needs. We have several wonderful lesbian/gay members in our church that are considered our friends. No one has ever been neglected or mistreated in the 24 years we have attended this UMC in Bend, Oregon. I think all of us would rebel at such hurtful activities. Someone, somewhere seems to need attention, and is very vocal about it at the expense of harming our church traditions, mission involvement, community activities and ignoring family values. I will continue to uphold my United Methodist church in its efforts to retain and promote the good news to everyone.

By: Dennis Foster

Dennis Foster — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 02:57:46 +0000

Why is there still an issue with homosexuality? The Book of Discipline was upheld at the General Conference. Regardless of what any state or annual conference might pass as legislation regarding this issue, United Methodists are still governed by the Book of Discipline. It is amazing that non-denominational churches are growing and Methodism is dying on the vine. Non-denominational teaching is from the Bible, and we as United Methodists need to return to it as well. Retired ministers or anyone performing such a ceremony should have all their benefits stopped if they violate the Book of Discipline, and the Bishops who preside over should be held accountable for not carrying out their duty and oath. [Ed. note — Related post: Joe Whittemore: 'Enough is enough']

By: Ronnie Boyd

Ronnie Boyd — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:32:46 +0000

Those retired pastors wishing to do marriages for same-sex couples should not be able to continue to draw their pensions if they perform one. End of story! You want to know why UMC has a declining membership and the Southern Baptists are thriving? It is because the SB are upholding biblical teachings. [Ed. note — Related post: Joe Whittemore: 'Enough is enough']