“We are concerned about the continuing tensions within our denomination over issues of sexuality and ordination,” states a news release from the presbytery’s task force that recommended its adoption.
The language in the overture mirrors a proposal suggested by the evangelical group Presbyterians for Renewal.
The overture states that the nongeographic synod would only ordain those who promise to follow the standard of practicing fidelity if they are in a heterosexual marriage or chastity if they are single. Also, ministers in that synod “will celebrate marriages only between a man and a woman. They will not celebrate marriages between members of the same sex in those states whose laws allow such marriages, nor will they celebrate marriage-like unions between members of the same sex.”
