The Acts of Convention

House of Deputies

Original Text of Resolution:

(A032)

Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That we recognize recent discussions in the Church regarding human sexuality have revealed increased ambiguity and tension; we affirm the mysterious nature of human sexuality. These matters are deeply personal, and it is quite difficult to arrive at comprehensive and widely accepted statements, and be it further

Resolved, That in honoring the divine gift of free will to all children of God, we cannot and will not attempt to control the behavior of others; however, we accept the Church's responsibility to offer the values and guidance that enable individuals to avoid or heal relationships which are exploitative and hurtful and to seek and create relationships which are life-giving and grace filled; and be it further

Resolved, That we foster a greater awareness that, even when using protection, sexual activity can result in unwanted pregnancy leading to difficult decisions regarding marriage, adoption or abortion, and be it further

Resolved, That the Church continue the discussion of the possible life-determining consequences of irresponsible sexual activity which affect the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of the individual; and be it further

Resolved, That we affirm the teaching of the House of Bishops Pastoral Study Document Continuing the Dialogue, (Guideline #7, page 94): "We view as contrary to the Baptismal Covenant, and therefore morally unacceptable, sexual behavior which is adulterous, promiscuous, abusive, or exploitative in nature, or which involves children or others incapable of informed, mutual consent and understanding the consequences of such a relationship."; and be it further

Resolved, That we recognize that all people are children of God and those who fall short in their attempt to live by these teachings have a full and equal claim upon the love, pastoral care and concern of the Church.

The Committee on Social and Urban Affairs presented its Report #39 on Resolution A032 (Common Beliefs on Relationships), moved the resolution, and recommended adoption as amended.

Proposed Committee Amendment:

Amend the first Resolved clause as follows:

Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring, That the 72nd General Convention of the Episcopal Church recognize recent discussions in the Church regarding human sexuality have revealed increased ambiguity and tension; we affirm the mysterious nature of human sexuality, and that these matters are deeply personal, making it quite difficult to arrive at comprehensive and widely accepted statements, and be it further

Motion carried

Resolution adopted with amendment

(Communicated to the House of Bishops in HD Message #296)