United Methodist bishops say they'll uphold ban on same-sex unions

United Methodist bishops say they'll uphold ban on same-sex unions from The Boston Pilot

The United Methodist Church's Council of Bishops said in a Nov. 10 letter they would continue to uphold the denomination's ban on blessing same-sex unions.

"As the Council of Bishops we will uphold the Book of Discipline as established by General Conference," the denominational assembly that meets every four years and is the church's highest policymaking body, said the letter, which was addressed to all Methodists...

While acknowledging "the deep disagreements and divisions within the church" on an issue that has caused "deep pain" throughout the church, "at times like these we call upon each other to remember and renew our covenant with God and with one another as United Methodist Christians," the Council of Bishops said. "As bishops chosen, consecrated and assigned by the church, we declare once again our commitment to be faithful to this covenant we have made."