Paul Wilczynski's Observations

Presbyterian Minister Faces Reprimand for Marrying Gays

The Associated Press via iWon reports ...

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - A Presbyterian minister accused of marrying two lesbian couples in violation of the faith's position that marriage is between a man and a woman could face a reprimand or be forced to leave the ministry after more than 30 years.

The Rev. Jane Spahr of San Rafael was scheduled to be tried by a church judicial commission on Thursday for the ceremonies, conducted in 2004 and 2005.

Spahr, 63, argues she was honoring her personal conscience and relationship with God when she officiated at the ceremonies. If found guilty by the regional governing body of the Presbyterian Church (USA), the Presbytery of the Redwoods, she could face anything from a rebuke to being removed from the ministry, said one of her lawyers, Timothy Cahn.

Faith communities have enormous responsibility to fight oppressive systems," said Spahr, a lesbian activist who directs a group lobbying for greater inclusion of gay Presbyterians in the church. "Certainly the founder of the Christian faith was someone who challenged all oppressive systems that kept people from being whole." ...

posted by Paul Wilczynski @ 7:02 AM