*is a denial of the basic right to choose a course of action according to one's conscience, which includes the choice of self-defense and defense of the sick and wounded in their care;
*is based on significant errors of fact; for one, contrary to policy assertions, neither the Geneva Convention nor the armed forces have ever had a prohibition against chaplains bearing arms;
*is a violation of the Geneva Convention, the Hague Rules, and the United Nations Charter, which confer the "inherent right" of self-defense and prohibit any restriction of such right;
*is contrary to the spirit of a historic Church of conscience, when administrators of one of its agencies can impose their personal theology on all who come under their jurisdiction.
The conscientious choice of a course of action by chaplains in such matters of life and/or death is a choice that only they have a right to make. This policy denies that right.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22789-HE-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference