The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is preparing to vote on a proposed rule that would require ordained clergy to be in monogamous sexual relationships. This proposal, known as CON-10, will be discussed at the General Assembly scheduled for this summer in Milwaukee. The measure has faced significant opposition from various church committees and polyamorous groups. The church has allowed the ordination of openly gay clergy since 2011 and changed its definition of marriage to include 'two people' in 2014. The new rule does not address sexual orientation but focuses on multipartner relationships, citing concerns about potential power imbalances and emotional harm.
The Sierra Blanca Presbytery submitted the proposal, which states that pastors must 'display moral character' and live in monogamous relationships if engaged in any sexual relationship. It also calls for the development of resources to assist individuals leaving polyamorous situations.
Three advisory committees within the church have expressed their disapproval of the proposal. The Advocacy Committee for Women and Gender Justice stated that the rule could harm individuals by regulating their private lives. The Advocacy Committee on LGBTQIA+ Equity argued that the rule reinforces a narrow understanding of family that privileges certain cultural frameworks. The Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy recommended rejecting the measure in favor of studying diverse relationship understandings.
More Light Presbyterians, a progressive activist group, has actively campaigned against the monogamy requirement, arguing that it perpetuates harmful definitions of relationships. They have called for funding theological studies that support various familial realities. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the Presbytery of Sierra Blanca have not yet commented on the matter.
