 Boston, Mass. Today, charges against the Rev.
Jean Southard, Presbyterian minister, were dismissed by the Presbytery
of Boston's Permanent Judicial Commission. Charges were brought against Jean
for officiating at a wedding of two women which is a legal in the state of
Massachusetts.
Rev. Janet Edwards, Co-Moderator, More
Light Presbyterians, said, "I give thanks for the faithful pastoral ministry of
Rev. Jean Southard and the decision today recognizes and respects those pastoral
responsibilities. This PJC decision encourages all of us to continue the
dialogue about the meaning of marriage for both church and state."
Rev. Jean Southard most recently served
as pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Waltham, MA, a
welcoming and affirming More Light Church. "I had the privilege and joy of
visiting Jean in Waltham and observing her faithful and loving pastoral
leadership and service in person. Jean is one of the most loving and thoughtful
pastors I have ever met. I give thanks to God today that the PJC dismissed the
charges against Jean. Her stalwart commitments to peacemaking, justice and
equality in addition to her pastoral heart characterize her life and ministry.
Jean is a blessing to everyone fortunate enough to know her," said
Michael J. Adee, Executive Director & Field Organizer,
MLP.
Today's decision by the Boston Presbytery's PJC provides
direction and reflection on the matter of marriage equality particularly due to
its location in a state where same-sex marriage is legal. More Light
Presbyterians is passionately and absolutely committed to spiritual equality,
ordination equality and marriage equality. We give thanks for today's decision
and the witness of Rev. Jean Southard.
with hope and grace,
Michael
Michael J. Adee, M.Div., Ph.D., Executive
Director & Field Organizer
God's Whole Family!
PS -- Don't miss the Pro-LGBT Event of the
year ... you still have time to register and join us for "God's
Whole Family!" September 4 - 6, The National Welcoming & Affirming
Presbyterian Conference, hosted by Second Presbyterian Church, Nashville, TN and
produced by MLP. For more information and to register go to www.mlp.org |
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