Rights of Sexual Minorities.--All creation is a gift of God, and all persons are sexual beings. Therefore, we celebrate the gift of sexuality. Some persons discover that their inner gender differs from their outer gender. Others bond affectionately with persons of the same gender. We recognize that all persons are created in God's image and are worthy of respect. We encourage and support sexual maturity that honors the integrity both of individuals involved and of the relationship that does not misuse position or power or abuse children sexually. Wherever sexual minority people struggle against non-acceptance, rejection, alienation, discrimination, and violence, we call upon the Church and all persons to speak and act in ways that show God's love and acceptance for all.
We oppose economic, political, social, and religious discrimination against sexual minorities. We call for the creation and enforcement of legal sanctions against such discrimination. We urge religious and social service agencies to make affirmative efforts to develop programs sensitive to and respectful of the needs of sexual minority persons and their families.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22447-CS-72-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference