The Annual Conference suggested study of the controversial issue of homosexuality can provide opportunities for growth in the midst of our tension and differences. As your Standing Committee representatives, we invite you and your congregation to fully participate in this study and listening process over the next several months. In an effort to encourage participation in the study, we met with district staff and developed events for training and support and a time line to help you as you plan for your congregation’s involvement in this process.
On Saturday, August 28, a training session was held at the Linville Creek Church with 136 people in attendance. Glenn Bollinger facilitated a demonstration of Session 1 of the 8 week Bible study with District Board members participating. Tips for facilitators were given as well as information regarding plans for the upcoming hearings in our district. Henry Elsea reported that our Standing Committee delegates are planning five hearings in various locations in the district. Exact dates and locations will be announced later.
The Bible Study and related documents can be found on the Annual Conference website using the following links.
Special Response Resources (8 week Bible study) http://www.cobannualconference.org/pdfs/special_response_resource.pdf
2009 paper “Structural Framework for Dealing with Strongly Controversial Issues" http://www.cobannualconference.org/ac_statements/controversial_issues-final.pdf
2009 Statement of Confession and Commitment by Standing Committee http://www.cobannualconference.org/pittsburgh/A_Statement_of_Confession_and_Commitment.pdf
2009 Query from Northern Indiana on Language of Same Sex Covenants http://www.cobannualconference.org/pittsburgh/NB_2_Query-Language_on_Same_Sex_Covenental_Relationships.pdf
2008 Resolution Urging Forbearance http://www.cobannualconference.org/ac_statements/resolution_urging_forbearance.pdf
1983 paper on Human Sexuality http://www.cobannualconference.org/ac_statements/83HumanSexuality.htm
1979 paper on Biblical Inspiration and Authority http://www.cobannualconference.org/ac_statements/79BiblicalInspiration%26Authority.htm
Please prayerfully consider how to involve as many people as possible in the Bible Study sessions. Some have expressed concerns about several statements in the commentary on selected scriptures. Perhaps you can find ways to make these points of conversation instead of points of contention. These study sessions can foster the sharing of many perspectives and will provide very helpful background information prior to participating in the district hearings.
We hope that you and your church have already begun planning for your participation in this process. Together, we will study scripture, listen to one another and to the Holy Spirit all the while trusting in God and in one another as we discern a path through our tensions and differences.