General
Convention 2000
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Resolution
Number:
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2000-D039
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Title:
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Acknowledge
Relationships Other Than Marriage and Existence of Disagreement
on the Church's Teaching
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Legislative
Action Taken:
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Concurred
as Substituted and Amended
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Final
Text:
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Resolved,
That the members of the 73rd General Convention intend for this Church
to provide a safe and just structure in which all can utilize their
gifts and creative energies for mission; and be it further
Resolved, That we acknowledge that while the issues of human sexuality
are not yet resolved, there are currently couples in the Body of Christ and
in this Church who are living in marriage and couples in the Body of Christ
and in this Church who are living in other life-long committed relationships;
and be it further
Resolved, That we expect such relationships will be characterized by
fidelity, monogamy, mutual affection and respect, careful, honest communication,
and the holy love which enables those in such relationships to see in each
other the image of God; and be it further
Resolved, That we denounce promiscuity, exploitation, and abusiveness
in the relationships of any of our members; and be it further
Resolved, That this Church intends to hold all its members accountable
to these values, and will provide for them the prayerful support, encouragement,
and pastoral care necessary to live faithfully by them; and be it further
Resolved, That we acknowledge that some, acting in good conscience,
who disagree with the traditional teaching of the Church on human sexuality,
will act in contradiction to that position; and be it further
Resolved, That in continuity with previous actions of the General Convention
of this Church, and in response to the call for dialogue by the Lambeth Conference,
we affirm that those on various sides of controversial issues have a place
in the Church, and we reaffirm the imperative to promote conversation between
persons of differing experiences and perspectives, while acknowledging the
Church's teaching on the sanctity of marriage.