Various denominations of Christianity have responded to the call for LGBTQ equality in a variety of ways. Some, such as the United Church of Christ, welcome believers and leaders from all orientations and genders into their ranks. Others, such as the Southern Baptist Convention, view same-sex love and gender variance as sinful. Amidst the continuing debates in Christian circles, some denominations have a mixed record, alternating between acceptance and rejection. As it grapples with its own stances on LGBTQ people, the United Methodist Church proves to be welcoming and resistant to change by turns.

Transgender Deacon Welcomed Into the UMC’s Ranks

The Washington Post reported in June 2017 on the commission of M Barclay, a transgender individual, as a deacon in the United Methodist Church. Barclay is nonbinary, not identifying as male or female, and uses they/them pronouns. Barclay’s journey of faith includes study at the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, work as a Methodist youth ministry director, giving sermons, and participating in worship. Additionally, Barclay served in the Reconciling Ministries Network. This is a group that fights for the inclusion of transgender and gender nonconforming people in the UMC.

Even so, Barclay documents a difficult path toward the June 2017 commissioning ceremony. In the 2016 edition of its Book of Disciplines Statements, the UMC states that “the practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching.” Based on this portion of church doctrine, it does not officially ordain most people in same-sex relationships as ministers. However, Barclay chose to move forward and realize a calling for leadership and service. “I understand the rules of the church,” Barclay told the Washington Post. “But here’s the truth: I’m queer, and I’m called to this. I tried to walk away.”

Barclay’s move from Austin to Chicago may have paved the way for becoming commissioned. The newly minted deacon had originally petitioned for ordination in 2012 upon graduation from seminary but was turned away by UMC officials in the district. After relocating to the Windy City, Barclay tried again and succeeded, with that local board approving candidacy. Barclay will serve for two years while commissioned, after which a 2019 ordination as a full deacon is anticipated.

Local Church Culture Often Diverges From Official Doctrine

Much of the contention over the inclusion of LGBTQ people, particularly into church leadership, stems from differences between stances by individual UMC churches and the denomination’s official policies. For example, Karen Oliveto, an openly lesbian minister, was elected as a bishop for the Denver-area region in late 2016. Denver is part of the Methodist western jurisdiction, which rejects the official UMC position on homosexuality. The Guardian disclosed in an April 2017 piece that her election was immediately challenged by the denomination’s south central jurisdiction. While it led to the church court’s ruling that Oliveto could remain as bishop, she may be subject to a later disciplinary hearing due to her marriage to another woman. Meanwhile, other UMC ministers also defy the UMC’s doctrine and preside over same-gender weddings, as revealed by ThinkProgress in April 2016.

What Will the Future Hold for the UMC?

As the issue of LGBTQ inclusion continues to divide the Methodist church, its leadership anticipates the need to reexamine policy. Its bishops have tentatively scheduled a 2019 meeting of its General Conference to scrutinize church doctrine concerning sexuality and gender. They also hope to find a solution for the separation within its ranks. Currently, traditionalists insist on imposing official UMC policies while pro-LGBTQ members fight back. The formation of groups, such as the Reconciling Ministries Network, as well as individual clergy solemnizing same-sex marriages are part of this resistance. Meanwhile, the future of the denomination—whether its leadership can come to a consensus or if it will finally split up—remains uncertain.