Human Rights Campaign Statement on Presbyterian Ruling on Lesbian and Gay Ministers
HRC Religion and Faith Director Harry Knox: “The decision today sets up another roadblock of confusion for lesbian and gay candidates for ministry.”
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, released a statement today following a ruling by a Presbyterian Church commission that set aside a vote to move an open lesbian forward in ordination. The case involved Lisa Larges, the director of the Presbyterian Advocacy organization, That All May Freely Serve. Last year, a regional body in the church approved Lisa's call to ordination. This decision represents the second time that a court has reversed such a decision for Larges.“The decision today sets up another roadblock of confusion for lesbian and gay candidates for ministry,” said Harry Knox, director of the Human Rights Campaign’s Religion & Faith Program. “The Church needs these gifted ministers and it is time to make the denomination's policy plain. All should be welcome to serve God and humanity through the Presbyterian Church USA.”
Last year, the Presbyterian Church USA General Assembly, voted to remove restrictive language prohibiting lesbian and gay ordination from the church's constitution. The 173 Presbyteries are currently voting on this change, which needs a simple majority for ratification. The ruling in Larges’ case could have an impact on the remaining votes.
The Religion & Faith Program, part of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, has been following the case by Larges. On March 18, Harry Knox published an opinion piece that was featured on the HRC blog, HRCBackStory.org.
To learn more about the Religion & Faith Program at the Human Rights Campaign visit: www.hrc.org/religion.
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.