Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
I write to let you know that at its monthly stated meeting last evening the session voted to approve the following motion: The Session of CMPC will not discriminate based on sexual orientation against couples who seek to hold their weddings on church grounds. In other words, the sexual orientation of the couple will not be a determining factor in a decision to approve or disapprove of a wedding request.
The vote was 13 for, 1 against, and 1 abstention.
The leadership of the church is fully aware that this decision will be met with mixed reactions. Some will be happy. Some will be disappointed. Some may choose to leave CMPC. Still, others may be more inclined to join us.
We invite you all to join us as we pray for our congregation. This has been and will continue to be a difficult journey.
We believe we are being faithful in this decision—as hard as it has been.
The session also believes that this is in no way the end of our conversation(s), but instead a starting point.
In the fall of this year I plan to lead a book study on the book that has been most helpful to me as I have wrestled with this issue (others have found it extremely helpful as well). The book is entitled The Bible’s Yes to Same Sex Marriage: An Evangelicals Change of Heart (by Mark Achtemeier). I strongly encourage you to get a copy of the book and to read it. And then stay tuned for announcements about when the book study will be offered.
On behalf of the leadership of the church I want to thank you for your prayers and support that have carried us to this point and encourage you to continue to lift up those whom God has called to serve CMPC in these days.
Peace in Christ,
Rev. Scott W. Hoffman