Assembly '97 News Home page Documents next story		Secret Assembly Business blocks bridge to homosexuals Part the sixth The facilitation group had a pretty negative closing statement at the beginning of the day: The Facilitation Group recognises that many people and congregations in the Church and in the wider community are expecting a clear cut decision on the controversial issues relating to sexuality from this Assembly. The study of issues has caused uncertainty, bewilderment and pain. People are hurting and will be hurt regardless of the outcome of this Assembly Nevertheless it is clear from the working groups and our very extensive negotiations that there is no likelihood of consensus on the controversial proposals or even a clear majority. Furthermore the Assembly must heed the statements from the UAICC and the representatives of the migrant ethnic congregations and parishes which caution the Assembly not to proceed and to allow more time for consultation, study, reflection and dialogue. Accordingly, the amended proposals to be put to the Assembly contemplate that further time. The amended proposals to be put to the Assembly will most acutely affect gay and lesbian people who are part of the Uniting Church family and their friends and families. We ask the Assembly to consider the pastoral implications of this outcome. The Facilitation Group recommends that the Assembly not proceed with any of the other proposals in Clusters 6 to 9. ******************************************** In case you are wondering what were considered in "clusters 6 to 9", here’s a rough idea. Cluster 6 had: 25. SEXUALITY (Synod of Queensland) 25.1 That the Assembly affirm (a) that Christ calls and empowers us to be celibate in singleness and faithful in marriage; (b) that homosexual practice is contrary to the teaching of Scripture which has been affirmed by the church historically and ecumenically; and 25.2 that the Assembly determine (b) that ceremonies that celebrate homosexual relationships shall not be conducted by Ministers of the Uniting Church, nor held in Uniting Churches. 49. SEXUALITY (Presbyteries of North Brisbane and South Moreton) That the Assembly call the Uniting Church to: 49.4 point out that sexual activity outside of loving, equal, committed married relationships is having a damaging effect on many individuals, families and society; 49.5 affirm that Christ calls and empowers us to be celibate in singleness and faithful in marriage; 49.6 affirm that homosexual practice is contrary to the teaching of Scripture which has been affirmed by the church historically and ecumenically; 49.7 affirm the need for showing compassion to homosexual men and women, especially during times of injustice and ill-health; ********************************************* 50. SEXUALITY 2. Recognise, therefore, that God's standard for the expression of the gift of sexuality is chastity in singleness and faithfulness in heterosexual marriage, and that within marriage sexuality is not to be practised in any way that is exploitative and demeaning. Any sexual practice that fails to express this standard is sin for which God offers the grace of forgiveness and the power for new life. 52. SEXUALITY (Presbytery of Grampians) That the Assembly, with reference to paragraphs 6.32 - 6.36 of the report of the Task Group on Sexuality, reaffirm Standing Committee minute 87.46.2(c) which states: "notes that the report Homosexuality and the Church: Responses helps to clarify some of the issues involved, including the church’s expectation that its ministers will adhere to the standards of celibacy in singleness and faithfulness in marriage." Cluster 7 had stuff like: 32.11 Affirm the 1987 decision of the Standing Committee that "all baptised Christians belong in Christ's church and are welcomed at his table, regardless of their sexual orientation" (ASC Minute 87.46), and declare therefore that sexual orientation is irrelevant to eligibility for confirmation, membership and participation in the life and mission of the Church. 50.11.1 Note the 1987 decision of the Standing Committee that "all baptised Christians belong in Christ’s church and are welcome at his table, regardless of their sexual orientation", (ASC Minute 87.46). 11.2 Declare that persons who persist in and justify sexual practices outside the principles of chastity in singleness and faithfulness in heterosexual marriage, and persons who persist in and justify exploitative and demeaning sexual practices within marriage, are ineligible for confirmation, membership and participation in the life and mission of the church. 11.3 Affirm the valuable contribution being made by experienced and competent Christian ministries which seek to assist and support those who desire to withdraw from the homosexual lifestyle and to find sexual healing in Jesus Christ. 11.4 Recognising the political pressure to such groups and their therapists to cease their work, stand opposed to any attempt to legally prohibit therapies designed to assist those wishing to leave the homosexual lifestyle. ***********************************************

"The Uniting Church affirms that it belongs to the people of GOD on the way to the promised end." Basis of Union, Revised edition published 1992