Decision Number 1483

Decision

Jurisdictional conferences may adopt resolutions that are aspirational in nature, and express their ideals and opinions so long as they do not attempt to negate, ignore, or contradict the Discipline. Paragraphs 1 and 3-6 of the Resolution “Queer Delegates’ Call to Center Justice and Empowerment for LGBTQIA+ People in The UMC” are aspirational; Paragraph 2 of the Resolution is a prescriptive statement because it was meant to be a call to action that runs counter to the Discipline. The decisions of law of Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey and Bishop Frank J. Beard are partially affirmed and partially reversed.

April 25, 2023