United Methodist Church may split over LGBTQ fight
WASHINGTON (ABC7) — “I believe the denomination is in a mess and a split might be the only way forward,” Mary Kay Totty said.
Totty is a senior Pastor at Dumbarton United Methodist Church.
She has been fighting for LGBTQ inclusion for years.
She's proud her church in Georgetown welcomes all.
“We have been openly and publicly supportive and welcoming of LGBT people since 1987,” Totty said.
Thirty-three-years strong and she said she won't stop now because the lives of those in the LGBTQ community are on the line.
“It is important for LGBTQ people to know when they step in to sacred space they are genuinely safe and welcome and celebrated for who they are,” Totty said.
Guy Cecil is a gay man who attends Foundry United Methodist Church.
He said that is where he finds peace since moving to D.C.
Before moving, he took his time finding his faith.
“I grew up not particularly active in church and then I became active in the Southern Baptist Church which has historically not been welcoming of LGBTQ people,” Cecil said.
If the denomination splits, then traditionalist Methodists forming a new denomination would continue what they see as “bible supported” restrictions on same sex marriage and the ordination of LGBTQ clergy.
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Cecil meantime says he wants his church to reflect the best in society.
“You could hope the church could rally around issues of justice and mercy and grace and for us this is a fight about justice,” Cecil said.
