United Methodist Church repeals ban on gay clergy, same-sex marriage
Washington (AFP) - The United Methodist Church, which has some 10 million members around the world, repealed on Wednesday a ban on ordaining gay clergy and same-sex marriage. Church leadership, at a conference held in North Carolina, approved the moves in a 692-51 vote. The church removed its 1984 ban on the ordination of clergy who are "self-avowing practicing homosexuals." It also decided that clergy who perform same-sex marriages will not be subject to any penalties. Neither will clergy or churches which refuse to hold same-sex weddings. "Delegates and observers applauded after the vote," t...