February 19, 2009
Ashland Church Stops Signing Heterosexual Marriage Licenses
Allison Brandow, Faith Reporter,
Four clergy from an Ashland, Ore., church are refusing to sign marriage licenses for heterosexual couples, indicating they will resume signing licenses when same-sex couples can also legally marry. The Rev. Pam Shepherd of First Congregational United Church of Christ, along with three retired clergy, declared this decision in January. They will continue to perform wedding ceremonies, but couples will need to obtain the signature of a judge or justice of the peace on their licenses.
The church, which the Ashland Tidings reports is more than 90 percent straight, agreed with the leadership’s decision.
Shepherd told the Ashland Tidings that she felt she was agreeing with discrimination when she signed marriage licenses for heterosexual couples. She decided to no longer give passive approval to such discrimination.
A statement from the clergy said, “We will continue to celebrate the beautiful sacrament of marriage for all couples who wish their love and their spiritual union to be blessed by the church.”
First Congregational clergy conducted wedding ceremonies for five same-sex couples on January 10.
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February 19, 2009
It’s a sad day when the “church” doesn’t follow the scriptures.
February 28, 2009
Have we forgotten what the word of GOD says about same sex couples?? you are a Church!! Do you not trust in your Lord? Do he speak in vain? is his word true? wake up people you are a church of Christ not of this world!!!
There is always Vegas!