During a historic May 1 morning plenary session, one of the sources of heated, often painful, dispute at General Conference for the past 40 years was removed without debate: The denomination’s ban on ordaining “self-avowed practicing homosexuals” has been lifted.
Additional petitions were passed that overturned other longstanding rules prohibiting clergy from officiating same-sex weddings or churches from hosting them. Another vote ended the policy thousands of churches had used to leave the denomination, but created a pathway for churches wishing to return.
Throughout the day following the vote, United Methodists wearing rainbow colors signifying LGBTQ support could be seen taking selfies in front of the Charlotte Convention Center, where a giant banner hanging above the main doorway declares “The United Methodist Church Welcomes You!”
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