An index of GA actions relating to
homosexuality, 1970-2001
The Constitutional Services Department of the Office
of the General Assembly (specifically, Ms. Mary Ruth Phares) has issued
a new note in the PresbyNet meeting PCUSA POLITY REFLECTIONS, listing
all actions of the General Assembly relating to homosexuality from 1970
to the present. It is also on the PCUSA
web site.
You may find it helpful in researching this complex
issue for the coming discussions of Amendment A.
#44 From Mary Ruth Phares, Fri Jul 27
at 2:10p:
PCUSA POLITY REFLECTIONS Note 44 July 27, 2001
Polity Reflection notes reflect the
advice of the Constitutional Services Department of OGA, but do not
constitute rulings or authoritative interpretations. This is a read-only
note. Please submit comments to PCUSA POLITY DISCUSSION.
This note replaces PCUSA POLITY REFLECTIONS Notes 23, 38, and 41 which
have been withdrawn.
RE: ACTIONS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY
RELATING TO HOMOSEXUALITY - 1970-2001
Office of the General Assembly (OGA) Department of Constitutional
Services July 27, 2001
United Presbyterian Church:
UPC 182nd GA (1970), pp. 468-470, 888, Sexuality and the Human
Community; available OGA, order number OGA-88-041; phone 1-800-524-2612.
UPC 188th GA (1976), pp 111-112, The Church and Homosexuality (in
response to Overtures 9 (p. 169), 25 (p. 176), 52 (p. 186), 55 (p. 188),
58 (p. 189), and 62 (p. 191).
UPC 190th GA (1978), pp. 213-267, The Church and Homosexuality
(Reprinted in 198th GA (1986) pp. 971-1024). Available OGA, number OGA
88-042; phone 1-800-254-2612.
Presbyterian Church In the United States:
PCUS 117th GA(1977), pp. 174, 319. Paper "The Church and
Homosexuality: A Preliminary Study." Concern for just treatment of
homosexuals, protection from social and economic discrimination.
"...homosexuality falls short of God's plan."
PCUS 118th GA(1978), p. 190, reaffirm statements adopted by 117th GA.
PCUS 119th GA (1979), pp. 201-209, Homosexuality and the Church
(Reprinted in 198th GA (1986) pp 1025-1029).
PCUS 120th GA (1980), pp. 201-218, Adopted The Nature and Purpose of
Human Sexuality.
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.):
197th GA (1985), p. 118ff, PJC Decision, Union Church
v. Presbytery of Western New York. Applied 1978 & 1979 policies:
congr's right to elect officers is bounded by the constitution.
198th GA (1986), pp. 52, 835, Overture 158-86 on reprinting position
paper on homosexuality [approved] and revoking status of PLGC [not
adopted].
1987
199th GA (1987), pp. 66, 145 sec.15.194, 832, Communication 4-87 on
requesting clarification of apparent conflict between 1978 Policy and
G-5.0103. Approved response: more stringent limitations must be met by
candidates for office.
199th GA (1987), pp. 75, 151 sec. 15.252, 837, Communication 17-87 on
admission to membership of homosexuals. Answered with the same response
as Com. 4-87, sec 15.194.
199th GA (1987), pp. 70, 740, Overture 12-87, on sexual responsibility,
no action
199th GA (1987), pp. 70, 772, Overture 83-87, on sexual responsibility,
Pby Atlanta, no action.
199th GA (1987), pp. 70, 776, Overture 97-87 on elimination of laws
governing private sexual behavior of consenting adults. Adopted
199th GA (1987), pp. 70, 863 Commissioners' Resolution 4-87, on human
sexuality, asks for a renewed study of the subject, adopted substitute
resolution authorizing study.
1988
200th GA (1988), pp. 50, 129, 982, Overture 20-88 on power of sessions
and presbyteries to ordain according to their understanding. Not
adopted.
200th GA (1988), pp. 94 sec V.I., 1099, Overture 73-88, on upholding
fidelity in marriage and chastity outside of marriage, Pby Alaska,
referred to task force on Human Sexuality.
1989
201st GA (1989), pp. 75, 89, declaring GA is bound by previous decisions
until they are changed by constitutional means.
201st GA (1989), pp. 76, 216, 593, Overture 89-16 on amending Book of
Order to grant governing bodies power to ordain without regard to sexual
orientation; Referred to Special Task Force on Human Sexuality.
1990
202nd GA (1990), pp. 94, 228, 571, 741, Overture 89-102 on granting
governing bodies discretionary power to ordain. Referred to 203d GA.
202nd GA (1990), pp. 70, 841, Commissioners' Resolution 90-20 on non
discrimination in ROTC programs. Referred to Committee on Higher
Education.
202nd GA (1990), pp. 81, 811, Communication 90-9 on
reaffirming denomination's stand on homosexuality. Referred to Task
Force on Human Sexuality. See also Overture 90-78, page 94, 777.
202nd GA (1990), pp. 82, 757ff, various overtures directing PLGC to
cease distributing brochures, resolution adopted.
1991
203rd GA (1991), pp. 55, 263, Special Committee on Human Sexuality,
section on Gays and Lesbians pp 305-312.
203rd GA (1991), pp. 57, 395, 411, Request 91-23 Interpr W-4.9001: Not
proper for minister to perform same sex union ceremony that the minister
determines to be the same as a marriage ceremony, or for session to
permit the use of the building.
203rd GA (1991), pp. 55, 60-61, 1038, Commissioners' Resolution 91-26
Requiring Seminaries Not to Discriminate on the Basis of Sexual
Orientation. Referred to Committee on Theological Education, to report
to 204th GA (1992).
1992
204th GA (1992), pp. 102, 918, Commissioners' Resolution 92-23 in
support of PC(USA) policy and direct Stated Clerk to file an amicus
brief in New Jersey. Adopted.
204th GA (1992), pp. 133, 300, Overture 92-33 on not ordaining persons
who are in a state of unrepentant homosexual practice. Not adopted.
204th GA (1992), pp. 141, 918, Commissioners' Resolution 92-22 on
violation of PC(USA) standards by Boy Scouts. Not adopted.
204th GA (1992), pp. 138, 838, Overture 92-8 Right of Boy Scouts to set
own standards of membership. Presbytery Western North Carolina. Not
adopted.
204th GA (1992), p. 335, Stated Clerk filed Amicus Brief in Kentucky v.
Wasson, expressing GA position calling for decriminalization of
homosexual acts. See 1993 p. 349.
204th GA (1992), pp. 125, 705. recommendations from Theology and Worship
M.U. to referral from 203rd GA (1991) on human sexuality (see Minutes,
1991, p. 56).
204th GA (1992), pp. 137, 141, 776, report of Committee on Theological
Education on Commissioners' Resolution 91-26.
1993
205th GA (1993), p. 310, 21.010, Overture. 92-123: Rejected request to
prohibit ministers from participating in same-sex union ceremonies.
205th GA (1993), p. 308, 21.005, Overture. 92-117: Rejected request to
forbid ministers from blessing any relationship outside a Christian
marriage.
205th GA (1993), pp. 77, 339, 851, Overture 92-32 on unacceptability of
practicing homosexuality within the leadership of the church. Not
adopted.
205th GA (1993), pp. 76, 864, Overture 93-20 pp. 78, 895; Overture 93-77
pp. 78, 902, Overture 93-77 regarding definitive guidance and ordination
of homosexuals; alternate resolution adopted: pp 76,77 plan for three
year congregational & presbytery wide study and dialogue.
205th GA (1993), pp. 78, 318, 319, 902, Overture 93-100 on impediments
to ordination. Not adopted.
205th GA (1993), pp. 118, 898, Overture 93-81 condemning discriminatory
legislation in Colorado. Adopted.
205th GA (1993), pp. 119, 944, Commissioners' Resolution 93-27 on
examining current Boy Scouts of America policy, not adopted.
205th GA (1993), pp. 119, 946, Commissioners' Resolution 93-31 affirming
commitment to end discrimination based on sexual orientation.
205th GA (1993), p. 181, Pby West Jersey v. Synod of the Northeast,
Expression of an opinion, without action, does not constitute adoption
of a policy contrary to PC(USA).
205th GA (1993), pp. 163-166, PJC Decision, LeTourneau v. Presbytery of
Twin Cities.
205th GA (1993), pp. 166-170, PJC Decision, Sallade v. Presbytery of
Genesee Valley.
205th GA (1993), pp. 100, 308, 852, Overture 92-117; and pp.100, 310,
855, Overture 92-123 amend W-4.9001, prohibit blessing relationships
outside Christian Marriage, not adopted.
205th GA (1993), p. 322, ACC recommendation UU, sec. 21.049A on
"authoritative interpretation."
205th GA (1993), p. 349, Stated Clerk's Amicus Brief, Kentucky v.
Wasson, report that state Supreme Court held the statute
unconstitutional. See 1992, p. 335.
205th GA (1993), p. 350, Stated Clerk's Amicus Brief, Orthodox
Presbyterian Church v. Florio. Filed in support of state law extending
protection to persons discriminated against on the basis of sexual
orientation. See 1994, p. 207; 1995, p. 299; 1996 p. 207.
205th GA (1993), p. 350, Stated Clerk's Amicus Brief, Texas v. L.
Morales. Filed in support of challenge to state law criminalizing
private same gender sexual acts between consenting adults. See 1994, p.
207.
205th GA (1993), p. 722, report of Theology & Worship M.U. on 1992
p. 705 referral on publishing resources to assist the church exploring
issues relating to human sexuality.
1994
206th GA (1994), p. 126, report of OGA on resolution regarding
discriminatory legislation, GA 1993 p. 118 (Overture 93-81).
206th GA (1994), pp. 42, 186, 21.012, 488, Overture. 93-99 on same sex
unions, Pby Southern New England. Amendment to W-4.9001, "not
permitted for ministers to participate in the blessing of any same-sex
unions" sent to presbyteries, defeated 1995, p. 117, 11.052.
206th GA (1994), p. 207, AC Litigation, report on Texas v. Morales,
filed last year, court held plaintiffs lacked standing to challenge
statute limiting private sexual relations between persons of same
gender. Louisiana v. Baxley, report that SC declined to file amicus
brief because money had been offered for sex.
206th GA (1994), p. 497, Overture 94-4 on declaring par. 14 of policy
statement of the 190th GA (1978) regarding ordination of homosexual
persons as authoritative interpretation of the Constitution; ACC report
p. 188, section 21.015; overture disapproved, p. 67.
206th GA (1994), p. 508, Overture 94-3 and Overture 94-25 on amending
G-6.0106 to require fidelity within the covenant of marriage or celibacy
to hold an ordained office; ACC report p. 188, 191, sec. 21.014 and
21.024; Amendment sent down p. 67.
206th GA (1994), p. 522, Overture 94-53 on premarital chastity,
resolution adopted p. 93.
206th GA (1994), p. 522, Overture 94-54 on teaching about human
sexuality, disapproved p. 93.
206th GA (1994), pp. 80, 198, 489, Overture 93-111, on clarifying the
nature of definitive guidance, disapproved.
206th GA (1994), p. 142, PJC Decision, Hope PC v. Central PC. A
self-affirming, practicing, and unrepentant homosexual person may not be
ordained. No precedent exists for annulment of an irregular ordination.
1995
207th GA (1995), p. 318, 31.023, Report of publication: God's Gift of
Sexuality, in response to CR 94-5 (1994 pp 52, 53, 569-570).
207th GA (1995), p. 28, Commissioners' Resolution 95-9, sexual
intercourse outside marriage is a sin, declined under SR B.5.e.,
considered last year.
207th GA (1995), pp. 27, 28, 725, Commissioner's Resolution 95-10, on
equal access to civil status of marriage, referred to 208th GA (1996).
(see also 1997 p. 127)
207th GA (1995), p. 109, SC's report of compliance with Overture 93-81
(1993 pp. 118,119) on opposing discriminatory legislation against
homosexuals.
207th GA (1995), pp. 109, 299, AC Litigation, SC filed an amicus brief
in Equality Foundation v. Cincinnati, Dec. 1994; opposition to
discriminatory legislation against homosexuals
207th GA (1995), p. 111, SC's report Res. on Human Sexuality to be made
to 208th GA (1996), (see 1993 pp. 77, 78).
207th GA (1995), p. 117, 11.052, Amendment A.1.to require fidelity
within the covenant of marriage or celibacy to hold an ordained office
not adopted by presbyteries.
207th GA (1995), p. 117, 11.052, Amendment E. forbidding participation
by ministers in blessing same-sex unions not adopted by presbyteries.
207th GA (1995), p.125, 11.060, PJC Decision, Mt Auburn P.C. v. Pby
Cincinnati, Held, constitutionality of session's policy on gays and
lesbians was not before the PJC.
207th GA (1995), p. 318, 31.019, report on compliance with Overture
94-53, (1994, pp. 93, 522) on encouraging commitment to premarital
chastity by youth.
207th GA (1995), p. 331, CMD progress in sex ed. curriculum (Overture
90-41, 1990, 46, 47, 296).
207th GA (1995), p. 66, 69, 70, 665 Overture 95-11, on following through
on Human Sexuality Dialogue, Pby Heartland. Approved as amended.
207th GA (1995), pp. 23, 666, Overture 95-12, par 14, 1978 policy
ordination of homosexuals to be declared authoritative interpretation,
Pby Heartland, ref 208th GA (1996).
207th GA (1995), pp. 80-81, 712-713 Overture 95-68 professional ethics,
Pby Western Reserve, special committee to draft a code of professional
ethics, approved.
1996
208th GA (1996), p. 156-160, 12.004 report of dialogue on human
sexuality (Overture 95-11, 1995 pp. 69-70, 665.)
208th GA (1996), pp. 78-82, 686, Overture 96-13 AMENDMENT B.1996,
G-6.0106b, to require fidelity and chastity of ordained officers. Also
answered by this action: Ovts 95-1 p.679 95-12 p.679 96-10 p.684 96-11
p.685 96-15 p.688 96-16 p.689 96-18 p.689 96-18 p.689 96-20 p.691 96-21
p.692 96-22 p.693 96-25 p.695 96-29 p.697 96-30 p.698 96-31 p.699 96-33
p.699 96-34 p.700 96-35 p.702 96-41 p.705 96-43 p.708 96-44 p.709 96-45
p.709 96-49 p.712 96-56 p.715 96-62 p.721 96-63 p.721 96-65 p.723 96-66
p.723 96-69 p.725 96-71 p.727 96-72 p.727 96-73 p.728 96-76 p.730 96-77
p.731 96-78 p.732 96-79 p.733 96-83 p.735 96-84 p.737 96-85 p.738 96-86
p.739 96-88 p.740 96-90 p.742 96-91 p.743 96-92 p.744 96-94 p.745 96-95
p.746 Commissioners' Resolution 96-6 p.783 Protests pp 82 - 90
208th GA (1996), p.161, report of appointment of Sp C'tee on Code of
Professional Ethics.
208th GA (1996), p. 80 V.A. Regarding , Overtures 96-11, 96-30, 96-32,
-96-11. Stated Clerk directed to express apologies that constitutional
questions had not been addressed and reminding them they may resubmit.
208th GA (1996), pp. 7, 80, 747, Overture 96-98, on delaying action on
ordination of homosexuals, Pby Mission, disapproved
208th GA (1996), pp 78, 750, Overture 96-105 urging humble prayer and
silence, Pby Cascades, approved.
208th GA (1996), pp. 78, 80, 755, Overture 96-114, on working for
ministries of compassion and healing, Pby Alaska, approved as amended.
208th GA (1996), pp. 78, 80, 760, Overture 96-121, on ministries to
those in sexual brokenness, Pby Prospect Hill, disapproved.
208th GA (1996), p 9. 173-176, 12.081, PJC Decision, Central P.C. v. Pby
Long Island, Rem Case 208-4, Language of D-3.0200 grants discretion to
governing body as to how, when, and whether it will respond to alleged
irregularity through administrative review.
208th GA (1996), p. 271, 272 Adv C'tee Litigation, report on Equality
Foundation v. Cincinnati filed last year, no decision; Sawatzky v.
Oklahoma City, SC filed amicus brief March 1995, re private consensual
homosexual relations. Romer v. Evans, SC filed amicus brief, June 1995,
re law that would prevent local laws being adopted or enforced to
protect homosexuals.
1997
209th GA (1997), p. 133, report Amendment B (1996) to amend G-6.0106
adopted 97/74/1.
209th GA (1997), p. 46, 592-616 report: Human Rights Update 1996-97,
sec. 35.0878 Gay/Lesbian Civil Rights, received, stated clerk directed
to publish.
209th GA (1997), pp. 139-141, PJC decision, Anderson v. Scioto Valley
Pby complaint v. pby approval of contract of stated supply where church
has a ministry to homosexuals, remanded to determine whether complaint
states a claim.
209th GA (1997), p. 97 NN, 127 sec. 12.0070, Stated Clerk's final
response to CR 95-10 (1995 pp. 27, 28, 725) on civil rights to same sex
partners.
209th GA (1997), p. 128, sec. 12.0075, stated clerk's report on referral
from last year (1996, p. 80 V.A.) Regarding, Overtures 96-11, 96-30,
96-32, -96-11. Letter was sent.
209th GA (1997), pp. 90 W. Y., 168-170, 684, 693 Overtures 97-9, 97-23
on changing the process of interpretation of the Constitution, not
approved.
209th GA (1997), pp. 72, 89-90, 170, 685, Overture 97-10, on amending
G-6.0106b, Pby Kiskiminetas, amended with comment, sent down to
presbyteries. Amendment A (1997). defeated, see 1998 p. 131 sec.
12.0126)
209th GA (1997), pp. 90, 170, 686, Overture 97-11, Pby Kiskiminetas,
declared moot due to passage of amendment B (1996) to G-6.0106b.
209th GA (1997), pp. 90, 172, 691, Overture 97-18, on setting aside the
interpretations of 1978 and 1993, Pby National Capital, disapproved.
209th GA (1997), pp. 90, 173, 694, Overture 97-24, on interpreting the
inclusive requirements to state that it is a violation to exclude on the
basis of membership in a class, Pby Chicago, referred to 210th GA
(1998).
209th GA (1997), pp. 90, 174 (21.0110), 697, Overture 97-29, on
reaffirming responsibilities of sessions and presbyteries to apply
standards of ordination, Pby San Francisco, disapproved.
209th GA (1997), pp. 90, 176 (21.0133), 700, Overture 97-34, on allowing
congregations and presbyteries to ordain officers according to their own
best judgment, Pby Santa Fe, disapproved.
209th GA (1997), pp 90, 707, Overture 97-47 on endorsing the concurring
opinion in Rem Case 208-4, Central Church v. Pby Long Island, (1996, p.
173, 175) Pby Albany, declined, filed late.
209th GA (1997), p.209th GA (1997), pp. 64 (S), 710, Overture 97-53, on
reexamination of moral and ethical standards of behavior, Pby of Grace,
disapproved.
209th GA (1997), pp. 42, 714, Overture 97-63, on a new translation of
the Heidelberg Catechism, Pby Winnebago, disapproved.
209th GA (1997), pp. 66, 722, Overture 97-77, on ministries to those in
sexual brokenness, Pby Prospect Hill, disapproved.
209th GA (1997), pp. 94, 98, 739, Commissioners' Resolution 97-6, on
church healing, disapproved.
209th GA (1997), pp. 29, 744, Commissioners' Resolution 97-19, on
showing pastoral concern for those already ordained before June 21,
1997, referred to ACC
209th GA (1997), pp. 191, 192 Adv C'tee Litigation,
Equality Foundation v. Cincinnati , amicus filed Dec. 1994, US Ct
Appeals, (6th Cir) has not rendered an opinion. Romer v. Evans, amicus
filed June 1995, US Sup Ct aff'd Colorado SC striking down amendment to
state constitution that prohibited local ordinances giving minority
status to persons on the basis of sexual orientaton. (See also 205th GA
(1993) p.119).
1998
210th GA (1998), p. 134, PJC decision National Capital Pby v. OGA,
complaint v. release of advice, dismissed for failure to state a claim.
210th GA (1998), pp. 60-61, 155, 656, 660, 672, Overtures 98-10, 98-17,
98-35, on authoritative interpretation by GA, disapproved with comment.
210th GA (1998), pp.68, 166 sec. 16.0220-.0224, 651, Overture 97-24, on
interpreting the inclusiveness requirements, Pby Chicago; GA adopted
authoritative interpretation of G-6.0106 and G-4.0403.
210th GA (1998), p. 62, 166 sec. 16.0216, ACC report on CR 97-19,
disapproved.
210th GA (1998), pp. 85, 672, 708 Overture 98-34, on translation of
Heidelberg Catechism; Communication 98-20, disapproved.
210th GA (1998), Overture 98-37, p. 673 on striking G-6.0107b, Pby
Milwaukee; ACC advice p. 161, 16.0149-16.0151; disapproved with comment
p. 68, II.T., II.U.
210th GA (1998), pp. 93, II. H., 677, Overture 98-45, on guiding youth
to fidelity & chastity, Pby Holston; Communication 98-33, p. 718,
719; approved. Also Overture 98-54, p. 682.
210th GA (1998, Overture 98-59, p. 686, on ecclesiastical disobedience,
Pby Baltimore; Communication 98-12, p. 704; disapproved with comment, p.
68, III.D.
210th GA (1998), pp. 68 III.E., 690, 693, Overture 98-65, on conference
on Nature of the Unity We Seek, National Cap Pby; also Overture 98-72
Pby N Y C; appr. w/ amendment.
210th GA (1998), pp. 91, 690-91, Overture 98-66, on directing NMD &
CMD to become advocates for people living with HIV and AIDS, Pby
Redwoods, adopted.
210th GA (1998), p. 68, 691, Overture 98-67, on postponing discussion of
ordaining practicing homosexuals for five years, Pby Utica; disapproved.
210th GA (1998), pp. 694-695, Overture 98-76, on meeting AIDS with grace
and truth, Pby Greater Atlanta, referred to OGA, to report 2001.
210th GA (1998), pp. 68, 742, Commissioners' Resolution 98-11, on
providing interpretive materials for G-6.0106b, disapproved.
210th GA (1998), p.134-136, 12.0161 - 12.0183, PJC decision, Anderson v.
Pby Scioto Vy.: Pby may extend the stated supply contract, where
ministry to homosexuals was being conducted.
210th GA (1998), pp. 171, 172, Adv C'tee Litigation, no amicus briefs on
issues of sexuality.
1999
211th GA (1999), p. 719, Overture 98-45, on guiding youth to fidelity
& chastity, report by CMD of gathering of youth pastors, teens,
parents on developing abstinence study guide.
211th GA (1999), pp.59, 701 par.10.005, 713
par.20.037, Overture 98-65, on referral of conference on Nature of the
Unity We Seek, report the conference was held.
211th GA (1999), pp. 59, 575, Overture 99-2 on striking G-6.0106b, Pby
Milwaukee, GA instructed the Stated Clerk to make available resources
for conferences and discussions on "The Nature of the Unity We Seek
in the Midst of Our Diversity." p. 610, Overture 99-27 on amending
G-6.0106b, Pby St. Andrew, answered as above. p. 612, Overture 99- 30 on
amending G-6.0106b, Pby Philadelphia, answered as above.
211th GA (1999), pp. 24-25 II.C., 637, Overture 99-46 on ensuring the
sexuality curriculum is brought in to conformance with Biblical and
Constitutional Standards, Pby Donegal, answered with alternative
resolution.
211th GA (1999), pp. 724, Overture 98-66, on directing NMD & CMD to
become advocates for people living with HIV and AIDS, report
Presbyterian AIDS Network working with entities.
211th GA (1999), pp. 80, 640-641, Overture 99-47, on hate crimes and
hate legislation, Pby Giddings-Lovejoy, Advice and Counsel memo,
alternative resolution approved.
211th GA (1999), pp.80-81, 650, Overture 99-56, on repentance of sin of
homophobia, Pby NYC. Approved alternate resolution, including language
suggested by ACSWP.
211th GA (1999), pp. 81, 618, Overture 99-34, on conversion therapies,
Pby Detroit. Answered by the action taken on Overture 99-56.
211th GA (1999), pp. 81, 672, Overture 99-73, defense of conversion
therapies, Pby Prospect Hill, p. 80, 81, D.3, 4, 5, three ovts answered
by statement "no church should insist that gay and lesbian people
need therapy...nor should it inhibit or discourage" those who seek
therapy. Answered by the action taken on Overture 99-56.
211th GA (1999), pp. 79, 661, Overture 99-64, on negative effects of
stereotyping and hate crimes based on sexual orientation, Pby Western
Reserve, Comment OGA, pp. 677, Commissioners' Resolution 99-1, on
creating a welcoming community for homosexuals, both answered by
referral to GAC to create task force, report 2000, 2001, 2002.
211th GA (1999), pp. 75, 673, Overture 99-74, explore policy providing
domestic partner benefits, Pby Twin Cities Area, disapproved.
211th GA (1999), pp. 79, 677 Commissioners' Resolution 99-1 on creating
a welcoming community for homosexuals, answered by the action on Ovt
99-64.
211th GA (1999), pp. 59, 694, Commissioners' Resolution 99-17, on
affirming the unity- diversity conversation, approved as amended,
instructed stated clerk to provide materials.
211th GA (1999), p. 831, PJC decision Wier v. Session, Second, Fort
Lauderdale, complaint that session ordained a practicing homosexual
elder, asking the ordination be annulled. PJC held the ordination,
though irregular cannot be annulled by a remedial action.
211th GA (1999), p. 838, PJC Session, Govans PC v. General Assembly
Council (GAC) re circulation of document "Frequently Asked
Questions and Answers", dismissed for failure to state a claim.
211th GA (1999), No Amicus Briefs filed relating to issues of homosexual
orientation or practice.
2000
212th GA (2000), p. 15, business related to G-6.0106b referred to 213th
GA (2001). Statement on this referral p. 63, D. New Business.
a. p. 365, Overture 00-6, On Appointing a Special Committee to Explore
Amendments to the Book of Order to Permit Congregations Which Cannot
Comply with G-6.0106b to Disaffiliate from the Church While Retaining
Real Property From the Presbytery of Beaver Butler.
b. p. 372, Overture 00-13. On Striking G-6.0106b from the Book of Order
From the Presbytery of Northern New England.
c. p. 413, Overture 00-40. On Amending G-4.0403 and G-14.0201 to List
Sexual Orientation as a Category Not to Be Excluded From the Presbytery
of Milwaukee.
d. p. 414, Overture 00-41. On Requesting the General Assembly to Declare
That All Persons, Regardless of Sexual Orientation, Are Able to Fulfill
the Requirements of Church Office From the Presbytery of Milwaukee.
e. p. 417, Overture 00-42. On Establishing a Special Task Force to Move
Beyond the Current Impasse From the Presbytery of Milwaukee.
f. p. 421, Overture 00-46. On Amending G-14.0202a By Adding an
Exemption/Waiver Clause for Governing Bodies When, in Good Conscience,
They Cannot Apply the Requirements of G-6.0106b Justly and Equitably
From the Presbytery of Santa Fe.
g. p.423, Overture 00-48. On Amending G-14.0202 to Add a Waiver of
Requirements Not Essential to Reformed Faith and Polity From the
Presbytery of Hudson River.
h. p.125, 16.145 .151. Recommendation to Approve Interpretation of
G-6.0106b (Request 00-3) From the Advisory Committee on the
Constitution.
212th GA (2000), p. 561 Referral in Progress, see Ovt 99-46, to report
214th GA (2002).
212th GA (2000), p. 559 Referral in Progress, see Ovt 99-64, to report
214th GA (2002).
212th GA (2000), p. 59, 370-372, Overture 00-12, to prohibit ministers
from performing same-sex unions, Pby Tampa Bay, answered by the action
on Ovt 00-26.
212th GA (2000), p. 59, 394, Overture 00-26, to
prohibit ministers from performing same-sex unions, Pby San Joaquin,
approved, sent to presbyteries as Amendment 00-O, which ultimately
failed to receive a majority of affirmative votes by presbyteries.
212th GA (2000), pp.41, 409, Overture 00-38, on developing resources for
ministry with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered persons, Pby San
Francisco, approved as amended, to report to 214th GA 2002.
212th GA (2000), pp. 63, 417, Overture 00-43, On Establishing a
Situation of Fair Play From the Presbytery of Milwaukee. Disapproved.
212th GA (2000), p. 59, 441-442, Overture 00-58, asking for
interpretation of the responsibility of pastors and sessions for worship
and pastoral care, Pby Western Reserve. Approved advice from Advisory
Committee on the Constitution that the existing constitutional language
is clear.
212th GA (2000), pp. 62, 442, Overture 00-60 on amending G-5.0103 to
clarify church's policy on welcoming gay, lesbian, bisexual, and
transgendered persons as church members. Approved with amendment, sent
to presbyteries as Amendment 00-A. Motion to reconsider failed p. 63.
Protests pp. 55 - 57 & 68. Dissents p. 63.
212th GA (2000), pp. 65, 460-462, Overture 00-75 on adding biblical and
confessional standards to the sexual misconduct policy, Pby Olympia,
disapproved.
212th GA (2000), pp. 60, 494-495, Commissioners' Resolution 00-13, on
support for same gender couples, disapproved.
212th GA (2000), p. 584, PJC , Session of Londonderry Presbyterian
Church v. Presbytery of Northern New England. Carried over, see report
to 213th GA (2001)
212th GA (2000), pp. 586-589, PJC Marc G. Benton, et al. v. Presbytery
of Hudson River, concerning same-sex holy union ceremonies.
212th GA (2000), pp. 589-590, PJC John S. Sheldon et al. v. West Jersey
Presbytery, concerning reception of a gay man under care as a candidate
for the ministry.
212th GA (2000), No Amicus Briefs filed relating to issues of homosexual
orientation or practice.
2001
213th GA (2001), pp. 29, 377, Overture 00-6, appoint a special committee
to explore amendments to the Book of Order to permit congregations which
cannot comply with G-6.0106b to disaffiliate from the church while
retaining real property, disapproved with comment.
213th GA (2001), pp. 51, 147-148, 16.145 .151 (Request 00-3),
interpretation of G-6.0106b, answered by following response "None
of these questions is appropriate for inquiry by a nominating committee
because only a session or a presbytery is authorized to examine
candidates for church office."
213th GA (2001), pp. 51 52, 401-405, Overture 01-8, amend G-6.0106a,
delete G-6.0106b, and adopt new authoritative interpretation re.
ordination standards to homosexual persons pending approval of amendment
by presbyteries, approved with amendment. Sent to presbyteries for
affirmative or negative vote as Proposed Amendment 01-A. Action on
Overture 01-8 answered the following:
Ovt. 00-13, pp.378-384 Ovt. 00-40, pp.384-386 Ovt. 00-48, pp.388-389 Ovt.
01-3, pp.394-395 Ovt. 01-6, pp.397-398 Ovt. 01-12, pp.409-412 Ovt.
01-19, pp.424-425 Ovt. 01-22, pp.428-429 Ovt. 01-27, pp.435-437 Ovt.
01-28, pp.437-439 Ovt. 01-29, pp.439-440 Ovt. 01-32, pp.441-443
213th GA (2001), pp. 28 29, 443-445, Overture 01-33, appointing a
theological commission to study the spiritual condition of our church
and the causes for unrest, report to the 217th GA (2005), the assembly
approved an alternate action. Action on Overture 01-33 answered the
following:
Ovt. 00-42, pp.386-387 CR 00-28, p. 485 Ovt. 01-9, pp.405-406 Ovt.
01-14, pp.414-417 Ovt. 01-20, pp.425-426 Ovt. 01-36, pp.447-449
213th GA (2001), p. 26, 453-455, Overture 01-41, directing the National
Ministries Division to offer transformational resources to those who
struggle with sexual purity and report to the 214th GA (2002), assembly
approved a statement and instructed the GAC to include it in resources
being prepared in response to Overture 00-38.
213th GA (2001), pp. 26, 491, Commissioners' Resolution 01-11,
encouraging support for scouting, referred to the GAC.
213th GA (2001), pp. 27, 494, Commissioners' Resolution 01-15,
addressing the violation of PC(USA) standards by the Boy Scouts of
America, referred to the GAC.
213th GA (2001), pp. 62, 500-501, Commissioners' Resolution 01-25,
affirming civil rights and nondiscrimination for all persons, regardless
of sexual orientation, referred as amended to the 214th GA (2002)
213th GA (2001), pp. 575-582, Session of Londonderry Presbyterian Church
v. Presbytery of Northern New England, decorous dissent is affirmed, but
does not include statement of intent to violate a constitutional
provision - no PJC or governing body has the authority to find a
provision of the BO invalid. -0-