Forcing the issue

A year ago Rev. Mike Tupper of the West Michigan Conference was in the news because he had officiated at his daughter's same-sex wedding in violation of the Book of Discipline. At that time the complaint was resolved with a Just Resolution, requiring Tupper to participate in the Truth and Reconciliation process developed along with Rev. Ed Rowe.

In July of this year Rev. Benjamin Hutchinson was charged with being a practicing homosexual (one with a partner) and forced from his church in Cassopolis. Shortly after that Hutchinson married his partner and Rev. Tupper was the lead officiant – "lead" because nine pastors took part in the service. The names of all nine pastors were turned over to their District Superintendent for disciplinary proceedings.

Now Tupper has issued a statement he will not agree to a just resolution as a way to resolve the complaint. That means the process may now go to a trial. If it does, Tupper said he would plead guilty, not contest any penalty, and would waive his right to appeal.

In a letter to the bishop, Tupper wrote, "God’s called me to highlight the need for a change in our Discipline at General Conference. But God has also made it clear to me that I should be willing to pay the price for my disobedience to the present Book of Discipline."

Part of Tupper's reason for his stance is because Rev. Hutchinson did not have the due-process protections that Tupper has available. In addition, Ginny Mikita, who also participated in Hutchinson's ceremony had her candidacy to become a United Methodist pastor was denied and her membership revoked. She also didn't have the protections available to Tupper.

The status of the complaint against the other pastors has not been disclosed.

After the Reconciling Ministries Network Convo in August it was obvious to me that the United Methodist denomination, if it wants to survive, will have to learn how to live with dissent and disobedience over the issue of homosexuality. Rev. Tupper is forcing this issue.

Fall Potluck and Program. October 4

Save the date! Next month on Sunday, October 4 at 6:00, DRUM (Dedicated Reconciling United Methodists) and the Church & Society Team of Nardin Park United Methodist Church will co-host the Annual Potluck & Program. Yes, this event will be in October this year. This time, MFSA (Methodist Federation for Social Action) is teaming with us! Chett Pritchett, Executive Director of MFSA will bring the message "You Can't Stop the Beat," referencing Matthew 24:36-44. Please come and bring a friend.

First Sunday Program, September 6

Yes, our First Sunday programs include Labor Day. This Sunday, September 6 at 7:00, First Sunday will be “Stories from the River” -- highlights from the Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN) and Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) partnership convocation "Gather at the River" in San Antonio, TX in early August. Paul Kinney and George Jonte-Crane attended and have inspirational stories to share. Refreshments and fellowship at 7:00 will precede the 7:30 discussion. We'll gather at Nardin Park United Methodist Church, 29887 W. Eleven Mile Rd., Farmington Hills. We'll be in rooms on the west end of the building, and will move to the beautiful courtyard, weather permitting.