The decision-making body of the United Methodist Church on Tuesday voted to clarify and strengthen the restrictions on LGBTQ members, in a plan that many observers say is unconstitutional. The Traditional Plan passed by a vote of 438-384.
The body earlier in the day rejected the One Church Plan — one that would have allowed regional decision-making bodies to decide whether to ordain LGBTQ clergy and affirmed the range of beliefs within the denomination.
According to the New York Times, U.S. progressives were the primary supporters of the One Church Plan, while church members from the African nations, Philippines, and evangelical Europeans and Americans expressed interest to keep tradition by supporting the Traditional Plan.
Shortly after the Traditional Plan passed — and before the conference wrapped up its three-day gathering — members opposed to the plan began singing “Blessed Assurance,” prompting a 10-minute break in the proceedings.
As the gathering reconvened, protesters continued to chant.
WATCH: The passing of the Traditional Plan, moments ago, has motivated some delegates to gather in the center of the floor while singing “This is my story, This is my song.” #GC2019 #UMCGC #INUMC pic.twitter.com/conMIOeBgM
— #INUMC (@inumconference) February 26, 2019
A group of young people prepared a statement, which organizers reported gathered more than 15,000 signatures in 13 hours, to read to the General Conference, urging leaders to pass the One Church Plan.
“We the young people of the United Methodist Church are not of one mind when it comes to inclusion of our LGBTQ siblings in Christ. And yet through working together, sharing stories, and worshipping side by side we have seen each other’s gifts and fruits for ministry! We have witnessed the incredible ways that God is working through each of us in our own unique contexts. We believe that if we are truly a body we need each other. We need one another, in all of our diversity- to fulfill our call to be the Body of Christ. We as the church need to stop the harm that is done when we debate one another’s humanity and worth, and focus on our shared mission to live into our primary identity as God’s children.”
This vote comes at a crucial time and could divide the United Methodist Church. Many fear that these deep divisions within the denomination will force people to leave.
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