Video by Rev. David Valera*
May 19, 2016 | Portland, Oregon
On Wednesday, May 18th, delegates to the 2016 United Methodist General Conference received a proposal from the Council of Bishops presenting a way forward on the topic of human sexuality. The proposal, delivered by COB President Bruce Ough, would set up a special commission to explore the topic in greater depth examining, and possibly revising, every paragraph in The Book of Discipline on human sexuality. It would require the conference to delay votes on a number of petitions regarding human sexuality.
The proposal, which was passed after several hours of debate, might also require the convening of a special session of the General Conference in 2018.
In this video, Marie Kuch-Stanovsky and the Rev. Mary Huycke discuss their hopes and apprehensions in respect to the “Way Forward” proposal, its passage, and the perceived actions of some factions. They also address some questions regarding differing understandings of leadership, committee work, and the importance of staying awake.
* Thanks to Rev. DJ del Rosario (interview), Teri Tobey (photos), Patrick Scriven (photos, video, text) and to United Methodist Communications for production assistance and media content. Primary video direction and editing by the Rev. David Valera for the PNW Conference.
