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March 24, 2004 Concerning the trial of the Rev. Karen DammannThe acquittal of the Reverend Karen Dammann in the Pacific-Northwest Conference has caused a multitude of reactions: anger, disappointment, betrayal, celebration, joy, denial and confusion. I believe it is essential that in the midst of such reactions The United Methodist Church must remain steadfast and faithful to its scriptural and theological grounding. Unfortunately, we continue not to be of one mind in the church as to the meaning of that grounding. As Bishop of the Indiana Area of The United Methodist Church, I reaffirm my commitment to The Book of Discipline, which is our connectional covenant as United Methodists. Where there continues to be disagreement with our Book of Discipline and doctrine, I commit myself to remain in dialogue with all those who disagree and will endeavor to represent this covenant in a manner that would honor Christ in whose name I give myself in service and ministry. I call upon the clergy and laity of the Indiana Area to be in prayer for our church, and especially for those who will gather at the General Conference next month in Pittsburgh with the hope that wherever there is brokenness and disunity in the Body of Christ that wholeness and reconciliation can be achieved. Bishop Woodie W. White, Resident Bishop If you know someone who has yet to sign up for e-HUM, they simply need to send a blank e-mail from their preferred e-mail account to add@inareaumc.org. e-HUM Alert copyright 2004 by Indiana Area United Methodist Communications. |
