Monday, December 23, 2013

Lesbian United Methodist Clerics Wed in Seattle; Could Be Defrocked for Violating Church Doctrine

Two United Methodist ministers recently "wed" each other in a ceremony in Seattle, Washington despite the possibility that they could face disciplinary action for violating church law, the Christian News website reports today (December 23, 2013).

Joanne Carlson Brown, 60, of Tibbetts United Methodist Church and Christie Newbill, 65, of Woodland Park United Methodist Church tied the knot at a ceremony at Brown's church on December 7th. District Superintendent Patricia Simpson officiated the ceremony, which was attended by approximately 300 supporters.

"Our marriage is our statement for declaring to our friends and family, in the presence of God, our love and commitment for one another," Brown told the United Methodist News Service.

The Church's Book of Discipline outlines that "the practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching" and that "self-avowed practicing homosexuals" may not be ordained as ministers in the denomination. Consequently, Brown and Newbill -- as well as Simpson -- could be disciplined or defrocked for violating Church doctrine.

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