Church Trial

On May 18, 2003, Longview United Methodist Church came out as a Reconciling Congregation. This event joined Longview UMC with a group of United Methodist Churches that work for the full inclusion of all persons into the life of the church. [1] We agree with the following statements in the United Methodist Book of Discipline that say:

"Homosexual persons no less than heterosexual persons are individuals of sacred worth. All persons need the ministry and guidance of the church in their struggles for human fulfillment, as well as the spiritual and emotional care of a fellowship that enables reconciling relationships with God, with others, and with self.

Furthermore the Discipline states that:

We implore families and churches not to reject or condemn their lesbian and gay members and friends. We commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all persons."

As United Methodists we also affirm the ministry of all believers. We believe that all people who have put their faith and life with Jesus Christ are called to follow the great commandments as found in the Gospel.

He said to him, ‘you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all you soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘you shall love your neighbor as yourself.’
~Matthew 22:37-39

We believe that there are many effective clergy in the United Methodist Church of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Rev. Karen Dammann is facing a church trial for disclosing that she is "living in a partnered, covenanted homosexual relationship with another woman." Currently, United Methodist Church law prohibits "self-avowed practicing homosexuals" from serving as clergy. We hope that in this trial the church will prayerfully consider its statements recognizing the sacred worth of all people.

It is our hope that soon the United Methodist Church will truly be an inclusive body fully welcoming people of all sexual orientations and gender identities into the participation of the church. Longview United Methodist Church will continue to follow our guiding principles.

Longview United Methodist Church is a church that:

• Welcomes Everyone
• Lives in God's grace of reconciliation and healing
• Supports people growing in discipleship.

Our prayers and our support go to Rev. Dammann, and her family in this difficult time.

For further information regarding the church trial go to: