ON TRIAL FOR LOVE

Throughout the last month and week, you may have read or viewed news reports relating the story of the United Methodist pastor, the Rev. Frank Schaefer and his performance of the same gender marriage ceremony of his son to his partner. A complaint was filed against Schaefer in performing the ceremony; it is against church law. Schaefer was tried and found guilty of breaking a portion of church law that forbids United Methodist clergy from performing such services. I have worked for a number of years to overturn this discriminatory law in my denomination. The United Methodist Church is conflicted as to how it desires to be in ministry with all persons. I am am not in compliance with this law and would err on the side of providing pastoral ministry to anyone in need.  If I were to do a same gender marriage ceremony, I too could be charged and brought to trial.  Therefore I am particularly glad and proud to serve a congregation that for lack of better words "Has my back!"  Grace United Methodist Church is dedicated to being in ministry with ALL people. Like a good friend/colleague wrote in regards to the trail of Schaefer, "For anyone who is hearing the harmful messages embedded in the current conversations about the United Methodist Church and its law, attitudes, and trials, I want to speak up for an alternative message, a Christian message of grace, inclusion, and blessing of glbtq persons and their love which is held by many faithful Wesleyan United Methodists in Reconciling congregations affiliated with the Reconciling Ministries Network across the U.S." If you doubt your worth, question God's love, or despair the mean-spirited actions of the UMC, seek out a Reconciling Congregation like Grace United Methodist Church - Lake Bluff. We may not be perfect but we are making a place for everyone.