The Presbyterian Church is considering an amendment to the constitution that changes the definition of marriage so that persons of any sexual orientation can be married.  Already approved by the General Assembly, Presbyteries now must vote to ratify this proposed change (highlighted):

Marriage involves a unique commitment between two people, traditionally a man and a woman, to love and support each other for the rest of their lives.

I am in favor of this amendment.

As a pastor, I recognize there will be those whose consciences differ when it comes to how they will vote on this amendment.  This is okay.  Different people may read and discern what scripture says in ways that differ from my reading of God’s Word.  For me there is nothing vague about the decision that needs to be made.  While traditionally marriage has been between a man and a woman, this amendment opens a door for the spirit of God to work with clergy and with churches who see women and men or those with diverse sexual orientations as ‘children of God’ who have the right to be joined in marriage.

An important point:  The decision is mine and mine alone to make as to whether I perform a marriage—any marriage.  The decision up to the session of a particular church whether to allow a marriage on their property—or not!  The only restriction would be if a vote on this amendment should fail.

Nothing herein shall compel a teaching elder to perform nor compel a session to authorize the use of church property for a marriage service that the teaching elder or the session believes is contrary to the teaching elder’s or the session’s discernment of the Holy Spirit and their understanding of the Word of God.

To see the entire section of the constitution impacted by this proposed change to the constitution go to this link:

http://covnetpres.org/amendment-14-f-marriage/

May we pray for unity of our collective heart a presbyters when voting on this amendment.  May our decisions continue to lodged in our respect for one another and in giving glory to God.