Moderator wants PCUSA to honor legislative process
By John H. Adams, The Layman Online, February 23, 2001
LOUISVILLE, Ky.– Syngman Rhee, moderator of the Presbyterian Church (USA), is calling on Presbyterians to honor the “legislative process” on divisive issues – such as Amendment O -then work toward reconciliation after an issue is decided.
Rhee gave his moderator’s report Feb. 23 to the General Assembly Council.
“We are all aware of the efforts of the middle governing body leadership trying to find some ‘other way’ than the legislative process we need to go through,” he said.
The employees of synods and presbyteries did not describe what they meant by the “other way” – the “third way” in their terminology. But it did not lean toward legislative resolution of such issues as same-sex unions or ordination of self-affirming, practicing homosexuals.
Several liberal groups in the Presbyterian Church (USA) have endorsed the “third way,” including 19 former moderators. Rhee did not lend his name to that endorsement.
From his visits with presbyteries, Rhee said he was encouraged by the way that Presbyterians are dealing with decisions on Amendment O, which would prohibit ministers from conducting same-sex unions.
“There is a strong sense of the mutual understanding toward each other as we struggle with the difficult, sensitive and divisive issues,” he said. “We may not understand each other’s positions, … but we are dealing with them with mutual understanding and trust and being able to live with the decisions we have made.”
As has been his custom, Rhee gave an upbeat report about his impressions of the denomination. He said there is “a deep sense of commitment by faithful Presbyterians for missions.” He applauded the Presbytery of West Virginia for establishing a $2 million program to support campus ministry, and said Presbyterians are helping homeless and impoverished people and providing an oasis for people around the globe.
Rhee also said he is encouraged by “an increasing sense of renewal within our church, knowing that if we are to continue to bring the mission and ministry, it is imperative for us to nurture continually the roots of our faith in order to bring forth the fruits of our faith.”