We are a Place For All, With No Exceptions!
February 27, 2019
MEDIA RELEASE
First United Methodist Church
230 E. Skyline Parkway
Duluth, MN 55811
Church office: 218-727-5021
Contacts:
Pastor Jeanine Alexander, 218-727-5021, pastor@fumcduluth.com
Bill Alexander, communications coordinator, connect@fumcduluth.com
First United Methodist Church-Duluth Responds to General Conference Decision on LBGTQ Status
The United Methodist Church met February 23-26 in St. Louis to determine the future of this global denomination, specifically concerning the impasse between those who support full inclusion of the LGBTQ community and those who do not. The denomination has been wrestling with this issue for over 40 years. In 2016 the bishops appointed a special commission to determine the best way to move forward in the midst of this situation. The commission presented three main options to the General Conference, each of which would guide the denomination into the future: the One Church Plan, the Connectional Conference Plan, and the Traditionalist Plan. The Council of Bishops strongly recommended the passage of the One Church Plan, which provides for the possibility of full inclusion.
On Tuesday, February 26, the General Conference voted to adopt the Traditionalist Plan. This plan affirms the exclusion of the LGBTQ community in marriage and ordination, with mandatory consequences for violation.
First United Methodist Church – the Coppertop has been a Reconciling Congregation for nearly two decades. This means that all persons have been and will continue to be fully included into all aspects of leadership and ministry, including offering marriage for all prepared couples. In light of the General Conference’s decision, First United Methodist Church will be joining like-minded United Methodist conferences, locally and globally, to determine how best to carry out our ministry of full inclusion. We anticipate thoughtful decision making will occur in the coming months.
The Coppertop Church is a place for all, no exceptions. The community is invited to join us in worship and fellowship, as we proclaim God’s radical grace and love for each and every person. Worship services are on Sunday mornings at 10:00AM at 230 East Skyline Parkway. www.fumcduluth.com