Straw Poll

 

At the 2024 UMC General Conference, delegates representing the global UMC will vote on changing the language in the UMC Book of Discipline to allow for the ordination of openly gay clergy, for the election of openly gay bishops, and for the marriages of same gender couples to be conducted by United Methodist clergy in United Methodist churches. 

 

This would change the 1972 language the General Conference added to the UMH Book of Discipline stating, “the practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching” and forbids ordaining openly gay clergy, electing openly gay bishops, and marrying same gender couples by United Methodist clergy in United Methodist churches.

 

Recognizing there exists within our faith community sisters and brothers in Christ with differing theological stances around these proposed changes, Harmony’s Church Council is prayerfully seeking to discern our congregation’s opinions for moving forward as Christ’s body, Harmony United Methodist Church.  To aid in this discernment, a “Straw Poll of Members and Regular Attendees” has been created. Since the Straw Poll is for information only, and not a binding decision, all involved in the life of Harmony may respond.

 

Harmony’s Church Council asks that you prayerfully complete this poll.  

 

Please respond by Monday, March 20th.  The results of this straw poll will be reported to church leadership at the March 21 Church Council meeting. 

 

Thank you for taking your time to make your decision prayerfully and discerningly.  In-depth information regarding this issue and the steps Harmony UMC leadership has taken to research and communicate prayerfully its many complexities was distributed in January.  Please refer to this as you discern your vote.

 

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you. 

 

The Way Forward Task Force

Steve Evick, Tom Gatewood, Robin Good, Susan Hubbuch, Dave Nash, Merc Skaggs, and Pastor Debra