Resolution for Full Inclusion

First United Methodist Church, which has sat at the corner of Ross and Harwood in Downtown Dallas for nearly 100 years, was part of the 1968 merger that formed the United Methodist Church. We intend to remain United Methodists and will continue to include everyone who shares our beliefs in the congregation.

On Oct. 1, 2023, FirstChurch members approved a resolution asking its leaders for the full inclusion of LGBTQIA+ members. 505 votes were received and the resolution passed, 469-36. This was not a vote to leave United Methodism. It will allow FirstChurch to more fully embrace inclusion for all members and a message from the congregation on what we see for the future of the United Methodist Church.

The resolution, which can be read in full here, covers three topics related to participation for church members who identify as LGBTQIA+:

• It instructs the Trustees Committee to rewrite our current wedding policy and allow the use of our property for all Christian marriage ceremonies, including same-sex marriages. 
• It pledges our church’s support to any church member exploring a call to ministry regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 
• It instructs our Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) to welcome qualified ministerial appointments of elders and the hiring of deacons regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or marital status.

 

As a church family, we acknowledge that everyone did not support the resolution, but as a faith family, we also understand that members do not always agree but continue provide unconditional love and support. 

 

Though we may not think alike, can we not love alike? – John Wesley

 

At FirstChurch, the definition of inclusion is put into action – all are loved and all are welcomed. We ask God for grace and peace as we move forward with conviction, authenticity, transparency and humility.