Mark Van House, Pickering ON - Eternity for Today: May 20, 2012
Marriage Policy
At the convention in July, the National Church passed a policy on Human Sexuality.
The MNO Synod has requested that each church select a marriage policy that best fits with their Mission and Beliefs.
Very briefly Policy 1 indicates that the church is willing to perform Same-Sex Marriages
Policy 2 indicates that the church is not willing to perform Same-Sex Marriages
It is our Bishop's wish to ensure that mission is not derailed during discussions and that the unity of the church is preserved.
This is the wish of Pastor Rick and the council as well. To this end we have drafted a plan of action that can and will be modified as needed.
Step 1: Talk/Think - as part of the open meetings, part of small group meetings, one-on-one with Pastor Rick
Step 2: Informal Vote - a survey will be distributed and you can vote anonymously for policy 1 or policy 2 or more discussion
* From the January / Pastoral Letter included in printed Re: Marks
* February Newsletter Marriage Policy Survey
Step 3: Meet - Based on the results of the survey a special congregational meeting will be held and either Policy 1 or Policy 2 will be presented
Step 4: Formal Vote - The vote will use secret ballots; council has recommended a two thirds majority be required
Step 5: Celebrate - that we could have a divisive issue and still embrace our neighbours
What will NOT happen!
* the discussion / vote will NOT be part of the Annual General Meeting
* the decision on which policy to adopt will NOT be made solely by Pastor Rick
* the decision on which policy to adopt will NOT be made by council
Our Current Marriage Policy
More Information
