A Methodist minister who was defrocked for declaring that she is a lesbian living with her partner is taking her case to a church appeals court. The Rev. Irene Stroud, of Philadelphia, was ousted Dec. 2 for violating the United Methodist Church's law against "self-avowed practicing homosexuals" in the clergy. Ms. Stroud decided last week to appeal, but delayed the announcement until after Christmas weekend. Notice of appeal must be filed this week. [snip]She said one factor in her decision was something retired Bishop Joseph Yeakel, the judge who presided at her church trial, said to her after the...