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What are your thoughts on the Judicial Council ruling on transgender clergy?

The United Methodist Judicial Council recently upheld rulings from the Baltimore-Washington Conference concerning transgender clergy.

In their consideration of two docket items related to the Rev. Drew Phoenix, pastor at St. John?s UMC in Baltimore, the Judicial Council stated that it was not ruling on whether changing gender is a chargeable offense or violates minimum standards set by the church?s legislative body, the General Conference. Rather, the council said, 'a clergyperson?s standing cannot be terminated without administrative or juridical action having occurred and all fair process being accorded.'

Because Phoenix is a clergy member in good standing, the ruling means Phoenix will continue to serve his church. But the subject of whether transgender clergy are eligible for appointment is likely to be among issues debated when the church?s General Conference meets in April.

The Judicial Council Ruling
Judicial council rules BWC acted in accordance with church law
Statement from Bishop John R. Schol