...with Christian teaching, self-avowed practicing homosexuals are not
to be accepted as candidates, ordained as ministers no person shall
be admitted to candidacy, nor ordained as a minister, nor appointed to
serve in The United Methodist Church unless and until such person shall have
submitted in writing a signed statement affirming that 1) he or she does not
believe that homosexuality is God's perfect will for any person; 2) he or she
does not and shall not engage in homosexual practices; and 3) he or she will
not encourage or promote the practice of homosexuality. Such a written
statement shall be required for one to become a candidate or to receive any
ordination or consecration in the authority of The United Methodist Church.
Such a statement shall be kept on file in the annual conference office of the
annual conference with which each candidate or minister shall be affiliated,
and no appointment may be made by any bishop of a minister who has not filed
such a statement. It is to be understood that making this statement falsely or
failing to maintain the commitment in this statement shall be grounds for
charges, discipline, and expulsion.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22690-MN-402.2-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference