The Queer Resolutions of 2010

Whereas, the gospel of Jesus Christ proclaims that all persons are of equal worth in the sight of God (Doctrine and Covenants 16:3C-F; James 2:1-13); and

Whereas, God calls people according to their giftedness and not specifically by gender, race, economic or educational status (Doctrine and Covenants 119:8B); and

Whereas, The sacraments symbolize God’s gracious interaction within the life of each disciple, and

Whereas, The sacrament of marriage symbolizes a sacred covenants between two people seeking to make a lifelong commitment of mutual support, love, and faithfulness to one another; and

Whereas, Instructions given in former times are applicable in principle to the needs of today, and the principles are to be evaluated and to be interpreted anew (Doctrine and Covenants 147:7); and
Whereas, WCR 1182 and WCR 272 contain principles of relationships involving marriages that apply to any person but which currently contain wording that could exclude some disciples; therefore be it

Resolved, That WCR 1182 be amended by replacing the words “husband and wife” with the words “marriage couple”; and

Resolved, That WCR 272 be amended by replacing the words “husband and wife” with the words “marriage couple.”

Whereas, WCR 386 identifies the First Presidency as the “leading interpreters and teachers of the laws and revelations of God”; and

Whereas, The sacrament of marriage symbolizes a sacred covenant between two people seeking to make a lifelong commitment of mutual support, love, and faithfulness to one another; and

Whereas, Some civil jurisdictions recognize same- sex marriages in their laws; and

Whereas, The church recognizes such same-sex marriages for its members in its records; and

Whereas, Wording within Doctrine and Covenants III referring to “husband and wife” can be interpreted as scriptural justification for prohibiting priesthood within Community of Christ from officiating at the sacrament of marriage for same-sex couples; and

Whereas, The current practice within the church of prohibiting priesthood members from officiating at the sacrament of marriage for same-sex couples in those areas where it is legal to do so amounts to a prohibition of sacramental ministry on the basis of sexual orientation; therefore, be it

Resolved: It is an expression to the First Presidency of the faith and earnest desire of this Conference that priesthood within Community of Christ be allowed to officiate at the sacrament of marriage for same-sex couples in those areas of the church where such marriages are legally recognized.

Whereas, The Church has been involved on one level or another in discussions about matters related to homosexuality for nearly 50 years; and

Whereas, Various methods (Temple School classes, Listening Circles) have been tried to facilitate the continuing conversations; and

Whereas, The civil and other human rights of homosexual persons are being advanced at an accelerat- ing rate in many of the world’s nations; and

Whereas, We have been recently advised that the First Presidency, in consultation with other World Church leaders and the Standing High Council, are discussing what the most-helpful processes may be for engaging the church in evaluating present church policies related to human sexuality; therefore be it

Resolved, That the First Presidency be requested to provide the Church an annual update on the progress and results of their consultations, using the Herald, the church Web site, and other appropriate World Church communications.

Whereas, Community of Christ is an international denomination providing ministry in diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds around the world; and

Whereas, Marriage customs, traditions, and legal requirements vary throughout the world; and

Whereas, Marriage is a legal contract (marriage license) between the couple and the government which imparts to both parties certain prescribed rights and duties that are generally enforceable in various states and nations of the world, such as property rights, inheritance, and kinship; and

Whereas, The Sacrament of Marriage is a sacred covenant between the couple and God in which the church participates with sanction, blessing, support, and guidance; and

Whereas, In some locations the minister can act as both an agent of the government as well as representing the church, while in other locations a separate civil government agent must also be involved; and

Whereas, The wording in Doctrine and Covenants Sections 17, 49, and III, and WCR 1182 referring to “husband and wife” has been interpreted as justification for prohibiting priesthood within Community of Christ from officiating at the Sacrament of Marriage for same-sex couples; and

Whereas, The Sacrament of Marriage symbolizes a sacred covenant between two persons seeking to make a lifelong commitment of mutual support, love, and faithfulness to one another; therefore be it

Resolved, That it is the sense of this World Conference that in jurisdictions where such is authorized by laws that Community of Christ priesthood be permitted to perform the Sacrament of Marriage for all couples seeking to enter into a sacred covenant before God in a long-term monogamous committed relationship; and be it further

Resolved, That this World Conference authorize the First Presidency to make appropriate editorial changes to WCR 1182 and the Church Administrator’s Handbook page 59, paragraph 4, making them inclusive of same-sex couples as well as opposite-sex couples; and be it further

Resolved, That this World Conference request the First Presidency provide interpretive comment in the Church Administrator’s Handbook that provides contextual material to help understand Doctrine and Covenants Sections 17, 49, and 111 in regard to the Sacrament of Marriage and this World Conference action.

Whereas, Community of Christ is an international denomination providing ministry in diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds in many nations of the world; and

Whereas, All are called according to the gifts of God unto them; and

Whereas, The scriptural standard for calls to the priesthood is called of God as was Aaron and acceptance by the people; and all other standards are cultural in nature and tend to vary from one culture to the next; and

Whereas, There is no record of Jesus giving any specific instruction about sexual orientation, but Jesus did instruct us to love one another, and in both word and action taught us to embrace marginalized persons; and

Whereas, The current World Church policy on sexual orientation with regard to priesthood ministry is inconsistent with World Conference Resolution 1226, which states that “human beings often fear, hate, and abuse each other because of ignorance about such factors as socioeconomic status, culture, race, gender, age, size, sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental or physical disability. Such prejudicial behavior undermines the personal and spiritual development of both abuser and abused, and denies the mutual benefits of shared giftedness”; therefore be it

Resolved, That this conference affirm that the fundamental requirement for one to be called to priesthood office is that he or she be called by one having appropriate administrative authority and approved by the sustaining vote of the proper jurisdictional conference or business meeting; and, be it further

Resolved, That it is the sense of this World Conference that the Standing High Council Statement on Homosexuality (March 18, 1982), and the World Church Leadership Council document “Community, Common Consent, and the Issue of Homosexuality” (October 2002) which prohibits the ordination of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, and transgender (LGBT) members should be rescinded by those bodies responsible to do so; and, be it further

Resolved, That it is the sense of this World Conference that calls for priesthood for LGBT members should be processed through the normal procedures, and be it further

Resolved, That it is the sense of this World Conference we encourage all jurisdictions to welcome LGBT members as priesthood members when appropriate calls are approved through normal and administrative and legislative channels, but in no way does this World Conference seek to mandate priesthood calls for LGBT members in those jurisdictions where culture and understanding inhibit, or the law prohibits homosexuals from full participation.

Whereas, Community of Christ proclaims a loving God and affirms the worth and giftedness of all persons; and

Whereas, The sacraments of the church – baptism, confirmation, the Lord’s Supper, marriage, blessing of children, laying on of hands for the sick, ordination to the priesthood, and the evangelist’s blessing – symbolize and reveal God’s grace to us, and are integral to the spiritual development of the entire body of the church; and

Whereas, The “Affirmation of Human Diversity” endorsed by the church in 1992 recognizes the harmful effect of prejudicial behavior on the spiritual health of the community and declares our desire to create within our congregations a spirit of openness and peace and to “eliminate expressions of prejudice and discrimination”; and

Whereas, The church continues to fall short of reaching this goal by denying some persons the opportunity to participate in certain sacraments because of factors such as sexual orientation; and

Whereas, Recent scripture counsels the church anew to embrace the reconciling purposes of God, and cautions: “…That which seeks to harden one human heart against another by constructing walls of fear and prejudice is not of God….” (Doctrine and Covenants 163:3c); and

Whereas, There is increasing awareness amongst the leadership and membership of the church of the need for Community of Christ, as an international organization that upholds “unity in diversity” as an Enduring Principle, to administer policies in ways that are respectful and appropriate to the varying cultures that exist within the diverse nations, communities, and congregations of the church; and

Whereas, Many congregations desire to create a culture of peace and justice where all persons are accepted, all gifts are celebrated, and all members may participate fully in the spiritual life of the community; therefore, be it

Resolved, That the right to full and equal participation in the sacraments of the church be made available to all persons, regardless of socioeconomic status, culture, race, gender, size, sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental or physical disability; and be it further

Resolved, That this practice be implemented by the First Presidency in a culturally respectful manner in each jurisdiction of the church, with consideration for the people’s discernment of the divine will for their own unique time and place.

Whereas, Policy within Community of Christ is not dictated by societal trends, but by adherence to scriptural instruction; and,

Whereas, Community of Christ has been instructed in Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b to “Courageous- ly challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purpose of God;” and

Whereas, The letter by First Presidency dated May 22, 2009, addressed the church’s policies and procedures and stated that no language in the guiding documents, referenced therein, provides for same-sex marriage; and

Whereas, This letter made clear that Community of Christ priesthood members are not authorized by the church to officiate in same-sex marriages, even where it is legal to do so; and,

Whereas, Due to the mobile nature of the world’s populations and the close fellowship among the various cultures and nations within the church’s membership, implementation of a regional approach to resolv-ng this issue would prove difficult and divisive, and contribute to continued confusion among the membership and the general population; and,

Whereas, The church was encouraged by the Presiding Evangelist, under the “prompting of the Spirit,” on April 3, 2004 (2004 World Conference), that “the time has come when the church must forsake deadlines that anticipate resolution of this question at each emerging World Conference and allow God to bless the church in God’s own way, in God’s own time;” therefore, be it

Resolved, That all legislation regarding the issue of same-sex marriage, be referred without prejudice to the First Presidency so as to not hinder or limit the continuing dialogue on this issue within the church; and, be it further

Resolved, That the First Presidency develop strategies that will lead to more effective widespread dialogue throughout the church on the issue of same-sex marriage.

Whereas, Community of Christ Standing High Council issued a Statement on Homosexuality, dated March 18, 1982; and,

Whereas, This statement affirms the worth of all persons and also requires the full acceptance of individuals with homosexual orientation into the life of the church; and

Whereas, This statement recognizes that both heterosexual and homosexual persons, both priesthood and among the general membership, are called to adhere to high moral standards regarding sexual activity; and

Whereas, This statement allows individuals who define themselves as homosexual, and abstain from homosexual acts, an opportunity to respond to God’s call to ordination in Community of Christ; and,

Whereas, The World Church Leadership Council (September 2002) issued a statement entitled “Community, Common Consent, and the Issue of Homosexuality,” reaffirming the 1982 guidelines regarding calling and ordination; and,

Whereas, The church has been encouraged by Presiding Evangelist Danny Belrose on April 3, 2004 (2004 World Conference), under the “prompting of the Spirit” that “the time has come when the church must forsake deadlines that anticipate resolution of this question at each emerging World Conference and allow God to bless the church in God’s own way, in God’s own time;” and,

Whereas, The 2007 Committee on Homosexuality and the Church report includes statistics and analysis that indicate listening circles have not been well received across the church; therefore, be it

Resolved, That the First Presidency continue to develop new strategies that will lead to more effective widespread dialogue throughout the church; and, be it further

Resolved, That all legislation regarding the issue of homosexuality as it relates to ordination, be referred without prejudice to the First Presidency so as to not hinder or limit the continuing dialogue on this issue within the church.

Whereas, There have been many attempts on resolutions to the World Conference for and against homosexuality, and

Whereas, Homosexuality remains a controversial issue in the world and within Community of Christ, and

Whereas, Reports have been given over the years to help the worldwide body of Community of Christ to deal with the issue of full inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) persons within Community of Christ, and

Whereas, We are committed to being a worldwide church-loving, respecting, and appreciating theologi cal, cultural, and socioeconomic differences, and

Whereas, On December 18, 2008, the first declaration on gay rights was presented to the United Nations General Assembly declaring that “we reaffirm the principle of nondiscrimination which requires that human rights apply equally to every human being regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity,” and

Whereas, Community of Christ has a presence in many nations and cultures where homosexuality is not a barrier to equal rights, therefore be it

Resolved, That we address global homosexuality as an issue primarily from a human rights perspective. Be it further

Resolved, That we take courageous steps to be in the forefront of those organizations which are helping to bring to bear just solutions to human-rights violations for GLBT persons in the world. Be if further

Resolved, That Community of Christ answer its calling as a prophetic church, and that leaders act courageously and with spiritual insights, seeking resolution to eliminate all forms of discrimination, including discrimination against GLBT persons. Be it further

Resolved, It is the sense of this Conference that full inclusion of GLBT persons in the life of Community of Christ be allowed where accepted in nations, states, and territories, and Community of Christ congregations. Be it further

Resolved, That the First Presidency be encouraged to actively support programs to help congregations become more welcoming and more effective in resisting discrimination in all forms, including those against GLBT persons.

Whereas, Christianity’s traditionally hostile view toward homosexuals and homosexual behavior has been a source of inhospitality, causing our homosexual brothers and sisters not only to feel unwelcome, but also devalued, invisible, and shamed; and many have left our fellowship; and the loss of these individuals deprives us of their unique witness, ministry, and gifts, making our community poorer by their absence; and

Whereas, We find that the few passages of scripture that suggest homosexuality is incompatible with Christian life reflect a cultural setting that did not understand homosexuality rather than speaking the truth of the gospel; and the overwhelming witness of scripture is that God’s love is universal and is showered on each person without regard to sexual orientation; and

Whereas, Community of Christ has never taught that the scriptures are inerrant nor that they should be interpreted literally; and

Whereas, The church has been instructed (Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b) to “Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purpose of God;” and

Whereas, We recognize the need in the lives of many homosexuals for the ministry of the gospel, as well as the need of the church for the ministry of homosexuals; therefore, be it

Resolved, That the church affirms that homosexual, bisexual, and transgendered persons are fully welcome in our fellowship; and be it further

Resolved, That, where culturally acceptable, jurisdictions of the church are encouraged to publish the following or similar statement in appropriate media such as weekly bulletin, on posters, etc.:

“The community of Christ values diversity and celebrates differences as part of God’s Creation. We welcome and include persons from a variety of family structures, without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity.” Be it further

Resolved, That, where culturally acceptable, leaders are encouraged to contact homosexual, bisexual, and transgendered church members who have been inactive and invite them to return.

Whereas, Community of Christ is an international denomination providing ministry in diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds in many nations of the world; and

Whereas, The scriptural standard for calls to the priesthood is to be called of God and accepted by the people; and all other standards are cultural in nature and tend to vary from one culture to the next; and

Whereas, There is no record of Jesus giving any specific instruction about sexual orientation, but Jesus did instruct us to love one another, and in both word and action taught us to embrace marginalized persons; and

Whereas, The current World Church policy on sexual orientation with regard to priesthood ministry is inconsistent with World Conference Resolution 1226, which states that “human beings often fear, hate, and abuse each other because of ignorance about such factors as socioeconomic status, culture, race, gender, age, size, sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental or physical disability. Such prejudicial behavior undermines the personal and spiritual development of both abuser and abused, and denies the mutual benefits of shared giftedness;” therefore be it

Resolved, That this Conference affirm that the fundamental requirement for one to be called to priesthood office is that he or she be called by one having appropriate administrative authority and approved by the sustaining vote of the proper jurisdictional conference or business meeting; and, be it further

Resolved, That it is the sense of the World Conference that the Standing High Council Statement on Homosexuality (March 18, 1982), and the World Church Leadership Council document “Community, Common Consent, and the Issue of Homosexuality” (October 2002), which restrict the ordination of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) members should be rescinded by those bodies responsible to do so; and, be it further

Resolved, That calls for priesthood for LGBT members should be processed through the normal procedures; and be it further

Resolved, That when appropriate calls to LGBT persons are approved through normal administrative and legislative channels, jurisdictions are encouraged to welcome those called as priesthood members, but in no way does this mandate priesthood calls for LGBT members in those jurisdictions where culture and understanding inhibit, or the law prohibits homosexuals from full participation.

Whereas, Community of Christ is an international denomination providing ministry in diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds around the world; and

Whereas, Marriage customs, traditions, and legal requirements vary throughout the world; and

Whereas, Marriage is a legal contract (marriage license) between the couple and the government which imparts to other parties certain prescribed rights and duties that are generally enforceable in various states and nations of the world, such as property rights, inheritance, and kinship; and

Whereas, The sacrament of marriage is a sacred covenant between a couple and God in which the church participates with sanction, blessing, support, and guidance; and

Whereas, In some locations the minister acts as both an agent of the government as well as a representative of the church, while in other locations a separate civil government agent must also be involved; and

Whereas, The sacrament of marriage institutes a sacred covenant between two persons seeking to make a lifelong committed relationship; therefore be it

Resolved, In jurisdictions where such is permissible by local law, that appropriate Community of Christ priesthood be authorized to perform the sacrament of marriage for two consenting individuals seeking to enter into a sacred covenant before God in a long-term monogamous committed relationship.

Whereas, Community of Christ has affirmed re- peatedly that individuals are called by God according to their giftedness (Doctrine and Covenants 119:8b and 156:9b-c, and WCR 1226 Affirmation of Human Diversity), and

Whereas, Some members of the church are being denied opportunity to serve in priesthood specifically because of their sexual orientation even when a call has been discerned by the appropriate leaders; therefore, be it

Resolved, That this World Conference ask the First Presidency to consider allowing for the ordination of individuals regardless of their sexual orientation in those jurisdictions of the church where such priesthood calls are received, or have been received and duly processed and approved by the appropriate leaders, and where such ordinations are accepted by the will of the congregation and or mission center or World Conference.

Whereas, The mission of Community of Christ is to proclaim Jesus Christ and promote communities of joy, hope, love, and peace; and

Whereas, The ministry of Jesus Christ is promised to all persons and each person is recognized as a child of God; and

Whereas, “Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s shalom, invites all people to come and receive divine peace in the midst of the difficult questions and struggles of life” (Doctrine and Covenants 163:2a); and

Whereas, There are committed relationships throughout the world through civil or common law unions due to local law, convenience, and economic reasons; and

Whereas, The church can honor these committed relationships by allowing them to be blessed by the church; therefore, be it

Resolved, That we recommend that the First Presidency authorize any priesthood member to perform culturally appropriate blessings in which any two adults may promise their exclusive commitment to each other before God and their community and receive the blessing of God through the church.

Whereas, Community of Christ has been counseled in Doctrine and Covenants 162:5c to “Listen together to one another, without judgment or pre-disposition” and to not assume that the answers to matters of conflict have yet been perceived as there is much labor to be done with a need to reason together in love and that the spirit of truth will prevail; and

Whereas, Further counsel has been given in Doctrine and Covenants 163:11b that “There are many issues that could easily consume the time and energy of the church. However, the challenge before a prophetic people is to discern and pursue what matters most for the journey ahead;” and

Whereas, An important part of being Community of Christ, a true worldwide community, is learning to talk about divisive issues without division through a process that incorporates healthy decision making and common consent that seen, regardless of the out- come, as fair by those who have different views; and

Whereas, As a worldwide community we are always confronted with challenges such as poverty, HIV/ AIDS, homelessness, orphans and vulnerable children, social injustice, and issues related to human sexuality, etc.; and, on such important matters, a spirit of trust should prevail in order to avoid situations where one side is closed to the other’s situation or point of view, making it difficult, if not impossible, to hold meaningful discussion; and

Whereas, In some states and nations the law of the land needs to be considered in these discussions so that inappropriate decisions do not adversely impact the mission of the church and put at risk the well-being of the church’s ministers in those areas; and

Whereas, As an Enduring Principle, Community of Christ affirms the worth of all persons, understanding that God views all people as having inestimable and equal worth wanting them to experience wholeness of body, mind, spirit, and relationships; challenging unjust systems that diminish human worth; and joining with Jesus Christ in bringing good news to the poor, sick, captive, and oppressed; therefore, be it

Resolved, That Community of Christ members and ministers work with communities to affirm homosexual persons as no less than heterosexual persons as individuals of sacred worth and continue their support for the rights and liberties of homosexual persons as an issue of justice; and be it further

Resolved, That all the legislation to the 2010 World Conference pertaining to matters of ordination of homosexual persons be referred to the First Presidency for consideration, looking for the means by which these matters could be considered more fully in a culturally contextual manner by the mission centers of the church rather than the World Conference determining a universal stance for the entire church.

Whereas, Community of Christ has been counseled in Doctrine and Covenants 162:5c to “Listen together to one another without judgment or pre-disposition” and to not assume that the answers to matters of conflict have yet been perceived as there is much labor to be done with a need to reason together in love and that the spirit of truth will prevail; and

Whereas, Further counsel has been given in Doctrine and Covenants 163:11b that “There are many issues that could easily consume the time and energy of the church. However, the challenge before a prophetic people is to discern and pursue what matters most for the journey ahead;” and

Whereas, An important part of being Community of Christ, a true worldwide community, is learning to talk about divisive issues without division through a process that incorporates healthy decision making and common consent that is seen, regardless of the outcome, as fair by those who have different views; and

Whereas, As a worldwide community we are always confronted with challenges such as poverty, HIV/ AIDS, homelessness, orphans and vulnerable children, social injustice, and issues related to human sexuality, etc.; and, on such important matters, a spirit of trust should prevail in order to avoid situations where one side is closed to the other’s situation or point of view, making it difficult, if not impossible, to hold meaningful discussion; and

Whereas, In some states and nations the law of the land needs to be considered in these discussions so that inappropriate decisions do not adversely impact the mission of the church and put at risk the well-being of the church’s ministers in those areas; and

Whereas, As an Enduring Principle, Community of Christ affirms the worth of all persons, understanding that God views all people as having inestimable and equal worth, wanting them to experience wholeness of body, mind, spirit, and relationships; challenging unjust systems that diminish human worth; and joining with Jesus Christ in bringing good news to the poor, sick, captive, and oppressed; therefore, be it

Resolved, That Community of Christ members and ministers work with communities to affirm homosexual persons as no less than heterosexual persons as individuals of sacred worth and continue their support for the rights and liberties of homosexual persons as an issue of justice; and be it further

Resolved, That all the legislation to the 2010 World Conference pertaining to matters of same-sex marriage be referred to the First Presidency for consideration, looking for the means by which these matters could be considered more fully in a culturally contextual manner by the mission centers of the church rather than the World Conference determining a universal stance for the entire church.

Whereas, Concepts expressed in Section III of the Doctrine and Covenants have guided Community of Christ on matters of marriage since at least 1835; and

Whereas, Section 11:2a-c of the Doctrine and Covenants refers to marriage as being between a man and a woman (husband and wife); and

Whereas, World Conference Resolution 1182 re- peatedly uses language referring to marriage as being between a husband and wife; and

Whereas, The Bible provides no other model for marriage than that of between a man and a woman (Genesis 2:24, Mark 10:7, Ephesians 5:31); therefore, be it

Resolved, That WCR 1182 be amended so that in the first sentence in the fourth point the word “heterosexual” be inserted so it reads, “The church upholds the validity of a heterosexual legal marriage…”; and be it further

Resolved, That the 2010 World Conference indicate through common consent its understanding that marriage be defined as between one man and one woman (husband and wife).

Whereas, A growing number of nations, states, and provinces have begun to allow same-sex marriage; and Whereas, The preface to Section III of the Doctrine and Covenants states that “the church knows no other law of marriage than that which is set forth here;” and

Whereas, Section 11:2a-c of the Doctrine and Covenants refers to marriage as being between a man and a woman (husband and wife); and

Whereas, World Conference Resolution 1182 repeatedly uses language referring to marriage as being between a husband and wife; and

Whereas, The Bible provides no other model for marriage than that of a man and a woman (Genesis 2:24, Mark 10:7, Ephesians 5:31); and

Whereas, No language in the basic guiding documents used by the church provides for same-sex marriage; therefore, be it

Resolved, That the 2010 World Conference indicates through common consent the understanding that Community of Christ priesthood members should not be authorized by the church to officiate in same-sex marriages, even where it is legal to do so.

Whereas, The church is to be faithful to the demands of the gospel, going beyond the boundaries of certainty to explore its implications in a complex world; and

Whereas, God’s people are called to live together in love and to embrace the rich diversity of our global family; and

Whereas, The body of Christ will always be challenged to seek unity within the body and to increase in understanding; and

Whereas; Since its beginning, the church has never permitted the calling and ordination of persons involved in sexual relationships with persons of the same sex; and

Whereas, The World Church Leadership Council declared in 2002 that the church would not make exceptions to the 1982 guidelines on calling and ordination unless those guidelines be first adjusted through the common consent of the people; therefore, be it

Resolved, That this 2010 World Conference indicates through common consent support for continuing the policy of not permitting the ordination of homosexuals involved in a sexual relationship with another person of the same sex.

Whereas, Community of Christ is an international faith community providing ministry to diverse cultures and ethnicities around the world; and

Whereas, Marriage customs, traditions, and legal requirements vary throughout the world; and

Whereas, Marriage is a sacred covenant between God and a couple seeking to make a lifelong commitment of mutual support, love, and faithfulness in which the church participates with sanction, blessing, support, and guidance; and

Whereas, Marriage is the only sacrament of the church where traditionally the laws of the land determine who may or may not receive it; and

Whereas, Same-gender couples who desire to make a binding covenant to each other with the church’s blessing are unable to do so; therefore, be it

Resolved, That this World Conference affirms the worth of long-term, monogamous relationships, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity; and be it further

Resolved, That this World Conference hereby authorizes Aaronic priests and members of the Melchisedec priesthood to officiate over the marriage of same-gender adult couples where such is allowed by law; and be it further

Resolved, That this World Conference hereby authorizes Aaronic priests and members of the Melchisedec priesthood to officiate over commitment ceremonies for same-gender adult couples in places where same-gender marriage is not currently allowed by law; and be it further

Resolved, That this World Conference hereby amends WCR 1182, removing gender as a criteria for determining who can participate in the sacrament of marriage; and be it further

Resolved, That this World Conference recognizes that Community of Christ leaders have the latitude to discern how and when to implement this resolution in nations where homosexuality is considered a crime or church members may face harm if found with materials discussing homosexual issues.

Whereas, Community of Christ is an international faith community providing ministry to diverse cultures and ethnicities around the world; and

Whereas, The gospel of Jesus Christ proclaims that all persons are of equal worth in the sight of God; and

Whereas, The 1982 Standing High Council statement concerning homosexual persons was drafted by a council of limited ethnic and cultural diversity not fully representative of the larger church of today; and

Whereas, Much has been learned from medical, social, and psychological fields of study concerning the nature of sexual orientation and gender identities in the past 25 years; and

Whereas, WCR 1226, adopted by common con- sent, states, “Human beings often fear, hate, and abuse each other because of ignorance about such factors as socioeconomic status, culture, race, gender, age, size, sexual orientation, and mental or physical disability. Such prejudicial behavior undermines the personal and spiritual development of both abuser and abused, and denies the mutual benefits of shared giftedness;” and

Whereas, Community of Christ is instructed in Doctrine and Covenants 163:7c that “It is not pleasing to God when any passage of scripture is used to diminish or oppress races, genders, or classes of human beings. Much physical and emotional violence has been done to some of God’s beloved children through misuse of scripture. The church is called to confess and repent of such attitudes and practices;” now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That this World Conference affirms that homosexuality is not a sin which disqualifies people from fully sharing their gifts within Community of Christ; and be it further

Resolved, That this World Conference affirms its belief that God calls people to priesthood offices according to their gifts, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity; and be it further

Resolved, That Community of Christ will no longer use sexual orientation or gender identity to disqualify those with calls to priesthood which have been approved through the proper channels in their jurisdiction; and be it further

Resolved, that this world Conference recognizes that Community of Christ leaders have the latitude to discern how and when to implement this resolution in nations where homosexuality is considered a crime or church members may face harm if found with materials discussing homosexual issues.

Preface

While sharing with the church in prayer, discussion, and discernment about important issues, I received an increasingly strong sense of divine direction about conditions of membership and other pressing questions. A significant aspect of my experience was God’s Spirit drawing me to consider various scripture passages. After I thoroughly explored many passages, the Holy Spirit focused my attention on Galatians 3:27–29:

“As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to the promise.“

While I studied this passage, the Spirit helped me see much broader dimensions of God’s grace working through Christ to transform human relationships in a divided world. As a result, I have an even-greater testimony than before of the power of the gospel of Christ to birth a new creation among those who dare to live its message in sacred community.

As the significance of what was unfolding became more obvious, the Spirit led me to consider a series of Doctrine and Covenants sections. Each addressed spiritual and relational dynamics of being a prophetic people. (For example, see Sections 10:6, 147:7, 149:4, 161:5, 162:2, and 163:7.) These include distinguishing between more-universal spiritual principles and particular expressions of them within the confines of human history and understanding. Being a divinely led prophetic people involves—as a necessity—reevaluating at times some existing understandings and customs to allow added insight and interpretation under the Spirit’s guidance.

With that background in mind, I present the following counsel to the church in response to the guidance of God’s Spirit. I offer this counsel in humility, fully aware of my limitations and weaknesses, which I always carry as a burden. I also present these words with full conviction of their truthfulness as an expression of the spirit of wisdom and revelation that flows from God’s eternal being.

To the Councils, Quorums, and Orders, to the World Conference, and to the church:

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All who actively engaged in prayer, discussion, and discernment about important issues in the church’s life are commended for your faithful response. Your disciplined effort to open your lives more fully to God’s Spirit in response to the call to be a prophetic people has become a blessing to the entire church. Your spiritual yearning for light and truth has created a favorable environment for the Spirit’s movement to provide inspired counsel as authoritative guidance for the church.

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A. Instruction given previously about baptism was proper to ensure the rise and cohesiveness of the church during its early development and in following years. However, as a growing number have come to understand, the redemptive action of God in Christ—while uniquely and authoritatively expressed through the church—is not confined solely to the church.

B. God’s grace, revealed in Jesus Christ, freely moves throughout creation, often beyond human perception, to achieve divine purposes in people’s lives. In harmony with God’s will, the Holy Spirit leads some people already committed to Jesus Christ through Christian baptism to further focus their response through church membership.

C. Individuals previously baptized of water in an attitude of humility and repentance and as an expression of faith in Jesus Christ may become church members through the sacrament of confirmation of the Holy Spirit.

D. Confirmation should follow a time of intentional preparation that includes exploring the church’s mission, beliefs, and understanding of discipleship expressed through covenant with God and others in sacred community.

E. During the confirmation prayer include an acknowledgement of the grace and authority of Jesus Christ through which baptism occurs. Also, bear witness to the ministry of the Holy Spirit, which weaves people’s giftedness into beautiful patterns of community to enrich their discipleship and to strengthen the fabric of the church.

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A. All church members are urged to examine the depth of your baptismal commitment. Having been baptized and confirmed, become fully immersed in the servant life of Christ.

B. Live the meaning of your baptism daily as you grow in the skills and qualities of discipleship. Actively and generously support the ministries of the church, which was divinely established to restore Christ’s covenant of peace, even the Zion of your hopes.

C. The Eternal Christ invites those who have yet to experience the blessings of baptism to “Follow me in the way of righteousness and peace.” Be baptized of water and the Spirit and discover your spiritual home as a fully functioning member of the body.

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Some have continued to express concerns about how the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper should be conducted. In other places, the meaning and potential power of this sacrament has been lessened by a lack of understanding and preparation. Because of these circumstances, the following counsel is given as confirmed by the Spirit:

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A. Serve the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper to all committed followers of Christ as a visible witness of loving Christian fellowship and shared remembrance of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection. Individuals may choose whether or not to receive the emblems according to their faith and understanding in harmony with guidelines provided by the First Presidency.

B. This pastoral provision does not lessen additional meanings associated with this sacrament in the church’s life. When the church gathers for Communion, highlight the opportunity for members to reaffirm their baptismal covenant, to reconcile strained relationships, and to commit together to the church’s mission of promoting communities of generosity, justice, and peacefulness.

C. Explore all the ways the Lord’s Supper can spiritually form the church community into a true and living expression of the life, sacrifice, resurrection, and continuing presence of Christ. Inherent in this sacrament is the divine call for the church to be a sacramental offering for the blessing, healing, and peace of creation.

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Serious questions about moral behavior and relationships continue to arise in many nations. These issues are complex and difficult to understand outside their particular settings because of strikingly different cultural histories, customs, and understandings of scripture. For example, the issues include female submission, female genital mutilation, child brides, forced marriages, and sexual permissiveness. They include cleansing and exploitation of widows, harsh conflicts over same-gender attraction and relationships, and varying legal, religious, and social definitions of marriage, to name just a few.

Over the last several years the need to resolve various moral and justice issues has intensified and become more complicated because of the growing international diversity of the church. The church has been told in previous counsel that we have been given the struggles and joys of diversity for divine purposes (Doctrine and Covenants 162:4). In response to my prayerful pleas for light regarding God’s purposes being worked out through our difficult struggles over various issues, God graciously blessed me with the following counsel:

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It is imperative to understand that when you are truly baptized into Christ you become part of a new creation. By taking on the life and mind of Christ, you increasingly view yourselves and others from a changed perspective. Former ways of defining people by economic status, social class, sex, gender, or ethnicity no longer are primary. Through the gospel of Christ a new community of tolerance, reconciliation, unity in diversity, and love is being born as a visible sign of the coming reign of God.

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A. As revealed in Christ, God, the Creator of all, ultimately is concerned about behaviors and relationships that uphold the worth and giftedness of all people and that protect the most vulnerable. Such relationships are to be rooted in the principles of Christ-like love, mutual respect, responsibility, justice, covenant, and faithfulness, against which there is no law.

B. If the church more fully will understand and consistently apply these principles, questions arising about responsible human sexuality; gender identities, roles, and relationships; marriage; and other issues may be resolved according to God’s divine purposes. Be assured, nothing within these principles condones selfish, irresponsible, promiscuous, degrading, or abusive relationships.

C. Faced with difficult questions, many properly turn to scripture to find insight and inspiration. Search the scriptures for the Living Word that brings life, healing, and hope to all. Embrace and proclaim these liberating truths.

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A. A worldwide prophetic church must develop cultural awareness and sensitivity to distinguish between issues that should be addressed by the World Conference and those that are best resolved nationally or in other ways.

B. Fundamental principles of ethical behavior and relationships should be addressed by the World Conference. The Conference should not decide specific policies for all nations when those decisions likely will cause serious harm in some of them.

C. However, timely resolution of pressing issues in various nations is necessary for the restoring work of the gospel to move forward with all of its potential. Therefore, let the proper World Church officers act in their callings—as already provided in church law—to create and interpret church policies to meet the needs of the church in different nations in harmony with the principles contained in this counsel.

D. Where possible and appropriate, convene national or field conferences to provide opportunities for broader dialogue, understanding, and consent. In those gatherings, let the spirit of love, justice, and truth prevail.

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The Council of Twelve and the Council of Presidents of Seventy have given ample attention to the previous instruction calling for the greatest collaboration possible among the leading missionary quorums. Because of their diligent efforts to create even-closer relationships to strengthen the church evangelistic and community-building mission, I now am free to offer the following counsel:

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A. The importance of evaluating and aligning ministerial roles and relationships to reach individuals and nations most effectively with the liberating truths of the gospel is always incumbent on the church.

B. For this purpose, the number of quorums of seventy and presidents of seventy may be adjusted at times to respond to evangelistic strategies in apostolic fields. The First Presidency, in concert with the Council of Twelve and the Council of Presidents of Seventy, will provide procedures for determining the number, makeup, and roles of quorums of seventy and presidents of seventy.

C. Let the evangelistic ministries of the church accelerate.

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While finishing this counsel, I paused for a time to rest with God in prayer and meditation, seeking added confirmation and clarity. From that devoted time with God, these closing words of challenge and promise unexpectedly sprang forth and found their place in this document:

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A. Beloved children of the Restoration, your continuing faith adventure with God has been divinely led, eventful, challenging, and sometimes surprising to you. By the grace of God, you are poised to fulfill God’s ultimate vision for the church.

B. When your willingness to live in sacred community as Christ’s new creation exceeds your natural fear of spiritual and relational transformation, you will become who you are called to be. The rise of Zion the beautiful, the peaceful reign of Christ, awaits your wholehearted response to the call to make and steadfastly hold to God’s covenant of peace in Jesus Christ.

C. This covenant entails sacramental living that respects and reveals God’s presence and reconciling activity in creation. It requires whole-life stewardship dedicated to expanding the church’s restoring ministries, especially those devoted to asserting the worth of persons, protecting the sacredness of creation, and relieving physical and spiritual suffering.

D. If you truly would be Community of Christ, then embody and live the concerns and passion of Christ.

E. The challenges and opportunities are momentous. Will you remain hesitant in the shadows of your fears, insecurities, and competing loyalties? Or will you move forward in the light of your divinely instilled call and vision?

F. The mission of Jesus Christ is what matters most for the journey ahead.

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The burdens of the prophetic office have increased dramatically since the last World Conference. However, my dedication to the church, my love for our people, and my conviction regarding the church’s divine calling have not waned, but have grown stronger.

With deep trust in the spiritual competency and maturity of the church, I turn the words of this counsel over to you for prayerful consideration and continued discernment. As we continue our journey together, may the gracious Spirit that blessed me similarly bless those who seek divine affirmation of this counsel.

Stephen M. Veazey
President of the Church
Independence, Missouri
April 11, 2010