Bridging the gap

I approach religion much like I approach politics. I think of myself as a moderate. I tend to see both sides of the issue and want to bridge the gap to bring peace.

For 24 years, I have witnessed the United Methodist Church at the General Conference level as it has attempted to be an inclusive church in the area of human sexuality. I have also seen the church as it has proudly embraced becoming a global church. Isn’t it amazing that, as these two issues have progressed, they also have collided, head-to-head.

I grew up in the Methodist Church. In the 1970’s I used to hear often that we were a “pluralistic” church. That meant that we looked at issues from a variety of perspectives. At the heart of pluralism is fostering acceptance, understanding and holding multiple views.

When it comes to the issues our denomination faces on human sexuality, I think we need to, again, claim our pluralism. It has been years since I have heard that term used. It means that we can disagree. The question is: “How can we be in ministry together EVEN with our different views on scripture and sensitive issues?”

The key is to not blame nor to point fingers. I voted for Rule 44 at General Conference. It offered an opportunity for Christina conferencing, sharing and listening in small groups. It is my feeling that talking honestly and listening intently to each other can begin to bring down walls that divide us and begin to build bridges of peace and healing.

All people are created by God and have value. Let us apply the three “simple” rules: 1) do no harm, 2) do good and 3) stay in love with God.

I believe Bishop Ough’s statement on May 18 is a way to move forward. God is here.

My prayer is that God might work a miracle. God is able.