Saddened by Southeast Conference action

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I was sad to learn that Southeast Mennonite Conference revoked Randy Spaulding's credentials ("Southeast Conference Revokes Credentials," Oct. 20). There are many things that distress me about this, but I'll just name three.

1. This has happened far too often: A pastor offers spiritual gifts to the church and they are affirmed, welcomed and used in great and mighty ways. Then the pastor "comes out," and because of his/her sexual orientation those gifts are totally invalidated.

2. The idea that only a few individuals in conference leadership, not the local congregation, can discern the will of God is unAnabaptist. How can the conference deny the discernment of the local body of believers who "wholeheartedly" support their pastor and want him to continue his ministry with them?

3. It appears that the Southeast Mennonite Conference is going against the statement that was passed by the delegates at Convention 2009, asking us "to create a healthy, safe environment in which to have dialogue, one that builds up the body of Christ and is respectful and honest about our differences." The SMC leaders officially met with Randy on July 28. At their second meeting on Sept. 15, he was told his credentials were revoked. How could any "dialogue" happen with Randy and his congregation in just a few weeks? Again, decisions made in my beloved Mennonite church have disappointed me.

I pray we will all experience God's wisdom and love as we learn the meaning of "agreeing to disagree in love."

Associated Issue: Healing justice - Oct. 20, 2009

Associated Article: Southeast Conference removes ministerial credential

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