[Martin Tell]

AS I understand the story (and no surprise that the Wash Post does not give the whole story, at least in this excerpt), the gay man in question is living in an active "partnered" relationship. He loudly announced his status, that he has no intention of ever stopping his activities and that he does not consider them sinful. This is very different from someone admitting that he or she is a sinner, repents and wants to change. I'm sure if this fellow did that he would be welcomed with open arms.

I think this Methodist minister should be saluted, not fired.

In the Episcopal Church (which I recently washed my hands of) the situation was much the same. First gay lay members were welcomed, and once they were established and found to be "Holy", gay priests were next and now there is a gay bishop. And the official church teaching is now that gay sex, far from being a sin, is sacramental.

[Non-Sequitur]

AS I understand the story (and no surprise that the Wash Post does not give the whole story, at least in this excerpt), the gay man in question is living in an active "partnered" relationship.

I know a couple of hetereosexual couples living together without benefit of matrimony who attend my Methodist church. Should they be expelled, too?

[cripplecreek]

So what you're saying is that the Rabbi who attended my church should have been expelled because he had no interest in conversion.

[Hodar]

If your understanding is correct; I am in full agreement with you. For the church to permit an openly Gay member; who intends to continue his 'lifestyle' is an affront to everything the church stands for.

[calreaganfan]

"He loudly announced his status, that he has no intention of ever stopping his activities and that he does not consider them sinful."

What about the millions of heterosexual couples who are cohabiting (not married)? Most, if not all, don't consider that behaviour to be sinful. Should they all be kicked out of the Church? The pews will be awfully empty!