History
Presbyterian Welcome developed from the concerns of a group of Presbyterians who came together in New York City in 1996 to find ways of promoting justice and inclusivity in and beyond the denomination.
In the spring of 1997, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) voted to amend the church’s constitution to bar anyone who is sexually active outside marriage from being ordained to clergy, elder, or deacon. This amendment, G-6.0106b, codifies a 1978 statement of “definitive guidance” from the General Assembly barring ordination of gay men and lesbians who are not celibate. Along with many national organizations, Presbyterian Welcome — on a local, Presbytery-wide level — seeks to overturn this amendment, and hopefully restore the understanding that all may be witnesses and actively serve the body of Christ.
In our 10-year history, we have helped countless men and women confront these issues with strategies, actions, education, spiritual renewal and prayer. Our goal is to have the amendment struck from the Book of Order and help restore equality and justice to the church we love and serve.