The General Church’s policy on
ordination is an application of doctrine
from the Word. While the Threefold
Word gives us many important
indicators, it was not written to give any
definitive statement on exactly what to do
regarding ordination and gender. This is
not surprising because the Word, and in
particular the Writings, has as its primary
concern our spiritual life and only
occasionally or incidentally does it speak
to specific behavioral or organizational
actions.
Thus we are left to make applications
based on our best understanding of the
Word, which has been a hallmark of the
General Church from its beginning –
attempting to follow the Lord through the
Threefold Word’s general and particular
teachings.
There will be different understandings
of doctrine and its application. Doubts can be raised about any particular
understanding of doctrine, and especially about any application of doctrine.
Variety of understanding enhances our overall appreciation of Divine truth.
Yet we seek a prevailing understanding of the Word on a topic like this, even
though it will not be embraced by everyone.
Where there is love for the Lord and charity toward the neighbor, these
differences do not prevent a church from being one. (See Arcana Coelestia
1799:4, 1834:2) Individuals are then focusing on what essentially makes a
church – belief in the Lord and following His teachings in their lives – rather
than focusing on its externals.
After much study, reflection, prayer, intense listening, and considering
what a strong preponderance of the clergy see the Word to be teaching, I
believe that we should maintain our current policy of inaugurating only males
into the priesthood. At the same time, I believe that we should strengthen
our efforts to honor and foster the talents and perspectives of lay people,
particularly women, in ways other than the priesthood.
As much as I appreciate the conviction, sincerity and feelings of those who
would like a change, the doctrinal guideposts that support an all-male clergy
remain more convincing to most of the clergy than doctrinal understandings
that suggest otherwise. This resonates with my own understanding of the
Threefold Word.
The General Church’s
policy on ordination
is an application of
doctrine from the
Word. While the
Threefold Word gives
us many important
indicators, it was not
written to give any
definitive statement
on exactly what to do
regarding ordination
and gender.
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