Evangelical imperative: Kindness, forbearance, grace
A recent editorial in Christianity Today suggested that “it may be time for mainline churches to consider an amicable divorce.” The editorial cited a proposal floated informally at the United Methodist General Conference in May to “explore an amicable and just separation” that would free the church from its “cycle of pain and conflict.” Similar talk is heard regularly in Presbyterian circles, usually, but not exclusively, on the right. The pain and conflict is over issues of sexuality, particularly the issue of gay/lesbian ordination.