The First United Methodist Church of Germantown, right here in
Philadelphia, is the subject of a two-hour documentary which will be shown
nationwide on PBS (including Channel 12 locally) on Wednesday, December 29,
from 9:30 to 11:30 p.m.

The documentary was created by Academy- and Emmy-Award-winning filmmakers
Alan and Susan Raymond. You can find more information about it at
http://thecongregationmovie.com

Highlights include the church's pioneering peace and social justice
missions as well as its strong support for its associate pastor, Beth
Stroud, who was recently prosecuted by the United Methodist Church, and her
ministerial credentials revoked, after she came out publicly as a lesbian.

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“Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.” - Jane Jacobs

I also got that e-mail announcing the showing of "The Congregation". I hope everyone will tune in and watch it, then chime in with your response here...

This is an important issue that religious denominations need to address. I believe that sexual orientation equality is an important civil rights issue that religious denominations can no longer pretend doesn't exist. They also cannot be allowed to continue to "defrock" or deny a calling to people solely based on their sexual orientation when the person is otherwise fully qualified and competent, and gifted to serve in ministry. I believe it is contrary to the inclusivity of the Great Commandment Jesus proclaimed as loving God and neighbor.

People in these denominations need to stand up, unite and hold their religious bodies accountable on these matters.

__________________
Peace,

John

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