Gay Marriages Divide Methodists

Deep divisions within the United Methodist Church were evident Friday as the church’s top court considered whether to punish pastors who perform gay marriages.

The Rev. Jimmy Creech, who was accused of disobedience in March for marrying two lesbians, told the panel that the church’s Social Principles - including a sentence prohibiting ministers from performing gay marriages - should be seen as guidelines, not law.

“It’s not intended to be a straitjacket that forces unanimity and conformity,” said Creech, of Omaha, Neb. “Let the Social Principles speak to our heart, don’t make them law.”

But two church bishops argued that allowing ministers to ignore the Social Principles, which are part of church’s law contained in its Book of Discipline, would erode the church authority.