The Methodist Federation for Social Action sponsored a letter writing
campaign in support of Rev. Jimmy Creech. It terminated on 1998-MAR-5. The statement below
is published for historical reasons.
Click below to visit one of our sponsors:
On September 14, 1997, United Methodist Minister Jimmy Creech took a stand that may
change history. He performed a union ceremony for two women who wanted to commit
themselves to one another in the eyes of God. Because of Social Principles
adopted by the
United Methodist Church, a controversy has ensued. It is not only about these 2
women, or
about Jimmy Creech: it is about justice, equality, compassion, and integrity.
As justice seeking people, whether we happen to be United Methodists or not, we believe in
the
vision of equal rights and privileges for all people regardless of sexual orientation. It
is up to us
to support and spread the light and the vision upon which Rev. Jimmy Creech staked his
reputation, livelihood and career.
We now join together to inform the nation that we support his vision and commend his
actions by
writing letters to our local papers and church newsletters, and by any other means
available to us
to proclaim the vision and inform the public that this is not an issue which is going to
disappear.
We ask that you do at least one of the following:
a) Write a letter yourself using the points described below.
b) Organize letter writing opportunities in your church or other supportive organizations.
Provide copies of the model letter to the editor, along with addresses for the local
paper, congresspeople, and religious authorities.
d) Send copies of your letter, or any information regarding Rev. Creech (letters,
editorials,
or articles) from your local paper to Proclaim the Vision, PO Box 5096,
Lancaster, PA
17606, or email freedom1@lancnews.infi.net
Thank-you for your support. Proclaim the Vision!
Laura Montgomery Rutt,
Nat'l Organizer, Proclaim the Vision Methodist Federation for Social Action
George McClain,
National Executive Director Methodist Federation for Social Action
Model Letter to the Editor
Date
Editor,
Your local paper
City/State/zip
Dear Editor:
As a (United Methodist/person of faith/ mother/ Christian.....) I applaud the
actions of Rev.
Jimmy Creech of First United Methodist Church of Omaha, Nebraska for taking a
stand and
performing a same sex union on Sept. 14, 1997.
(Pick 2 or 3 points, or write your own):
1) This debate can no longer be characterized as a debate between the religious and the
irreligious. Religious people are taking a stand in favor of same sex unions and
equal rights for gays and lesbians because of our faith and our belief in the gospels and spirit
of
Jesus Christ.
2) There are many people (of faith) that believe as I do that heterosexual relationships
are
not inherently superior to homosexual relationships. The issue is equality and justice for
all. Many of the same churches that segregated members in the pews by race are the
same churches that now condemn same sex unions.
3) Many people of faith are speaking out on this issue. The Bible teaches us to be
compassionate for other, to not judge lest we be judged, to seek justice and equality for
all
people.
4) The commitment of two people to love, honor and cherish one another 'til death do them
part should be encouraged and celebrated, whether those people are of the same sex or
not.
5) Many religious institutions from many faith traditions accept sexual minorities as full
and equal members of their churches and communities, and almost every major
denomination has tenets which support legislation ensuring equal rights for gays and
lesbians and freedom from discrimination.
6) My faith compels me to speak out on this issue because I believe that we are all equal
in the eyes of God.
7) Homosexuals no less than heterosexuals are God's children and people of inherent and
sacred worth and dignity, who are fulfilled by the ministry of the church and who fulfill
the
ministry of the church by their unique talents and blessings.
Jimmy Creech is standing up for what is right and true and just, and I support his vision.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Affiliation (if applicable)
Address
Daytime phone number
Also send a copy to:
Bishop Joel N. Martinez
PO Box 4553,
Lincoln NE, 68504
References:
CORNET stands for COvenant Relationships
NETwork. "CORNET addresses unjust practices and unloving
practices in The United Methodist Church concerning same-gender covenant services."
See: http://www.umaffirm.org/cornet/jcomaha.html
