The Church and Human Sexuality

The United Methodist Church affirms “that sexuality is God’s good gift to all persons. We call everyone to responsible stewardship of this sacred gift.” This affirmation is part of the denomination’s Social Principles.

Useful links

At the 2016 General Conference, the Council of Bishops proposed the formation of a Commission on a Way Forward to examine and possible revise every paragraph of the Book of Discipline concerning human sexuality. A special General Conference on Feb. 23-26, 2019 will take up proposals related to church unity and homosexuality.

We invite you to learn more about this topic. If you have more questions, contact InfoServ, and we will put you in touch with the appropriate church contact.

Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.

Human Sexuality

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now

General Conference

The Rev. Molly Vetter. Photo by Allison Knight.

General Conference delegate sees hope in decisions

Participating in her fifth General Conference as a delegate or first reserve, California clergywoman expresses optimism in removal of harmful language from the Book of Discipline.

Global Health

The Rev. Asir Ebenezer, general secretary of the National Council of Churches in India, speaks to the opening session of the “Gender and Sexual Diversities and the Faith Communities” seminar at the Methodist Educational Center in Chennai, India, on Jan. 19. From left to right are Bishop E. D. Yesurathnam, Chennai Area of The Methodist Church of India; Dr. V. Esther Kathiroli, executive secretary of the Tamilnad Christian Council; the Rev. Donald E. Messer, executive director of the Center for Health and Hope; Dr. N. M. Samuel, executive director of The C.A.R.E. Foundation in Namakkal, India; and Inba Ignatius, who has initiated a church ministry primarily with transgender members. Photo courtesy of the Rev. Donald E. Messer.

Faith communities help revive AIDS ministries in India

The National Council of Churches in India leads effort to revive HIV and AIDS programs overshadowed by the COVID pandemic and to advocate for gender and sexual diversity.

Human Sexuality

The Rev. Joelle Henneman. Photo courtesy of the author.

On toward Christian perfection after General Conference

In the wake of The United Methodist Church’s legislative assembly, the Rev. Joelle Henneman writes, “We have not reached Christian perfection quite yet. However, as we move forward, we do so with a more diverse harmony of voices.”

Useful links

Related Tags

Sign up for our newsletter!