Whereas, many United Methodist congregations and individuals support Gideons International through memberships and financial donations; and
Whereas, the membership of Gideons International is limited to Protestant business and professional men; and
Whereas, their membership criteria stand in opposition to the Discipline of The United Methodist Church ("The Social Principles"); and
Whereas, the Minnesota Annual Conference and the Minnesota Annual Conference Commission on the Status and Role of Women have taken the position of encouraging the Gideons International to reconsider their membership criteria; and
Whereas, the membership criteria of Gideons International detract from the strength of their ministry;
Therefore, be it resolved, that the General Conference of The United Methodist Church and its member congregations strongly encourage Gideons International to open their membership to all Christians, regardless of sex, socio-economic class, or denominational background.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 21557-IC-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference