Not guilty verdict in church trial (of lesbian minister)

[Newsjock]

http://komotv.com/stories/30399.htm

By KOMO Staff & News Services

BOTHELL - A lesbian Methodist pastor will be allowed to continue her ministry after she was acquitted Saturday in a church trial over her sexual orientation.

A jury of 13 pastors ruled in favor of the Rev. Karen Dammann, 47, who disclosed three years ago that she was in a homosexual relationship.

... Dammann is currently on leave as pastor of First United Methodist Church in Ellensburg, 95 miles east of Seattle. Last week she married her partner of nine years, Meredith Savage, in Portland, Ore., where officials began allowing gay marriages earlier this month. They have a 5-year-old son.

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[ayeshahaqqiqa]

1. I'm glad

that the Methodists looked to their hearts and didn't stick to dogma. Jesus was a prophet interesting in opening doors and freeing people. John Wesley, founder of the denomination, was a mystic. I think both would be pleased with what they decided.

[Cannikin]

2. Wow!

I didn't expect that! Perhaps their is hope yet!

[polmaven]

3. As a United Methodist

who totally disagrees with the church's stance on this issue, I am THRILLED! I believe my pastor will be as well. She was serving a church in New Hampshire in 1987. It was her first assignment as a full time pastor. She remembers the grief of the trial then.

I am hoping this will have some impact at the next General Conference, (I think it is next year)when it comes time to again consider the policy.

[Chicago Democrat]

5. Congratulations!

I am suprised and happy for you waspybutnice Methodists.

Who are some famous (or infamous) Methodists?

[JDPriestly]

6. Methodists

John Wesley preached to the poor. Methodists have always been dedicated to social justice. In early America, Methodist circuitriders - preachers rode on horseback - ministered to the isolated pioneers. Having been raised a Methodist, I respect the Methodist movement because of its strict personal , but very liberal social morality. If you are Christian, it is a good religion to check out, especially in inner cities.

[burrowowl]

8. Welcome to DU, JDPreistly!

:hi:

[polmaven]

9. To answer your question in order

of famous and infamous:
Bill Clinton :7
George W. Bush ;(

As you can see, Methodism is truly a VERY diverse faith community.

edit to add...The General Conference, BTW, is THIS year, 4/27 - 5/3 in Philly. This acquittal may be a sign of good things to come. It may not come this year, but it is a good step in the right direction. At least that is the opinion of this hetero UM.

[kayell]

4. Wow! this is wonderful

I never expected this. Hat's off to the methodists for following the principles of love and social justice.

[struggle4progress]

7. kick

:kick: