February 26, 2019

Centenary Opposes Special General Conference Plan

MANKATO - Today in St. Louis, the Special General Conference of the United Methodist Church (UMC), called to address conflict in the church over sexual orientation, passed a plan which strengthens the discrimination against LGBTQIA persons. The plan calls for stricter discipline toward pastors who are openly gay, or who perform same-sex marriage ceremonies. 

Charges questioning the constitutionality of the plan have been filed with the General Conference. As a result, it may be weeks before it is clear what effect the plan will have on both the world-wide church and local denominations.

Centenary United Methodist Church, downtown Mankato, became a Reconciling Congregation ten years ago, in opposition to the official UMC stance. With this recent vote, Centenary has renewed its commitment to stand even more strongly with its LGBTQIA neighbors. Centenary will continue its ministry of inclusion, advocacy, and extravagant welcome.