GA Day 6 - Difficult Marriage Issues

The General Assembly voted on several matters Thursday. 

We approved that Presbyterians have an interreligous stance with other religions meaning we will seek opportunities for respectful dialogue and mutual relationships with other religious traditions.

We approved advocate measures to prevent gun violence, opposed "stand your ground" laws, asked churches to declare their properties "gun-free zones," raise the age of gun ownership to 21, ban semi automatic  assault weapons, and create advocacy support for state and federal legislation.

We DISapproved a special committee to review PC(USA) abotion policy and a proposal to make a distinction between the ancient state of Israel and the current country of Israel.

We approved a lengthy statement on tax justice offering recommendations seeking a fairer tax system. We approved asking for a moratorium on the death penalty. We approved encouraging all churches to adopt a minimum 6 week parental leave with 100% of salary. We approved a study on end of life issues. 

Yes, we voted on a lot of motions Thursday, but most won't hear about these. Rather, the focus on this day was two fold: should pastors have the ability to perform same gender marriages where it is legal and should the definition of marriage be changed from "a man and a woman" to "two people."

Debate was respectful and civil. We first voted on pastoral discretion for same gender marriages. Should Presbyterian pastors have the choice to marry a same gender couple in a state where it is legal? The committee that debated this issue recommended to the Assembly that we vote yes. The Assembly in fact did vote yes, 61% - 39%. This was an "authoritative interpretation" which means it does not go to presbyteries for approval and is effective Saturday, June 21 at noon. 

Then the wording to redefine marriage was up for a vote. The original motion, again recommended for approval by the small committee, was to define marriage between "two people" instead of a man and a woman. An amendment was proposed which offered a middle ground. Marriage would be defined "between two people, traditionally between a man and a woman." This amendnent passed 85% - 15%. Then we voted on the main motion which passed 71% - 29%. While the motion passed to redefine marriage THAT DOES NOT MEAN MARRIAGE IS REDEFINED. The proposal then goes to the 172 presbyteries for their vote. A majority of the presbyteries must vote in favor for the change to go in effect. This vote will take place in 2015 at the presbytery level.

PLEASE NOTE: We also passed a motion to ask the Office of the General Assembly to develop resources and make personal visits to all presbyteries in an effort of reconciliation. There was a conscious effort made to care for our brothers and sisters who will grieve the decisions that were made today.

After a busy, stressful, and tiresome day, we ended celebrating the 248 churches that have started under the 1001 new initiatives. 248 red beach balls were released and hit around while the song "Happy" was played. It was a great release to the end of a difficult day. 

Prayers are with those whose hopes and dreams have been answered today. Prayers are with those who feel the Presbyterian church is going against the Bible and God's will. Lord, hear our prayers...