Mediation on a Grand Scale
By Rev. Lynn Cairns
January 16, 2021
The United Methodist Church, UMC, a worldwide organization, was in desperate need of mediation. THE ISSUE: Homosexuality, LBGTQ gender preferences in the life of the church. The Discipline, our rule book, states that, “Homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching”. These persons have worth and are to be ‘included’ in the church but without full participation i.e., Ordination. Thus, if LBGTQ persons were openly practicing their natural orientation they could not be ministers, and if already serving, could even be removed.
Every year local conferences representing large geographical areas meet, and the international General Conference meets every four years with delegates from around the world, to argue these issues. Those who were more progressive tried to get wording added that stated that more flexibility was needed. But what happened was that the wording became even more restrictive. It was becoming apparent that the United Methodist Church was headed for a bitter separation.
Enter a big high-powered mediator. Kenneth Feinburg, a well-known lawyer and mediator brought together 16 leaders representing many varying theological perspectives in the UMC. Many thought this was an impossible task. However, it is amazing what a skilled mediator can do. Feinburg felt that the major practices of faith were important in our society so therefore he wished to help resolve the issues facing the UMC. (By the way, he did this pro bono.) Over a period of time, these diverse leaders agreed upon a plan of separation for the church. It included financial and property disputes which are always difficult. Conferences around the country and the world could stay with the current United Methodist Church, and change the restrictive wording on human sexuality or they could decide to join other Methodist organizations or they could form their own new denomination that would keep or add to the restrictions on LBGTQ persons. If local churches wanted to stay “traditional” or voted to leave they could do so. To leave and take their property and financial accounts with them, they must meet certain criteria like being paid up with their liabilities to the general church.
Amazingly it looked like the next General Conference would approve some form of this mediated settlement. Then Covid-19 arrived in full force causing many local conferences and The General Conference, which includes Methodists from around the world, to be canceled. However, the proposals are still on the table to be taken in August of 2021.
If a divisive longstanding issue such as this in a world-wide denomination can be solved, don’t you think that issues in your life, business, divorce settlements or neighborly disagreements could also be mediated? I think it is indeed possible and Mediation Services of Adams County has resolved many such disputes over the years. If you find yourself in such a situation give us a call at 717-334-7312 and leave a message for the Mediation Services Intake Coordinator. MSAC will give you a callback and set up an appointment. Moderate fees, based on a sliding income scale, are charged at the time of mediation. You can also check us out online at mediationac@yahoo.com or www.mediatiedadams.org.
This entry was posted in Posts on January 16, 2021.