Pastors and other congregational leaders interested in developing a gospel-centered response to same-sex marriage are invited to a seminar being held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina (BSC).
On Monday afternoon Nov. 10, North Carolina Baptists have the opportunity to meet with Lynn Buzzard, retired professor from the Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law at Campbell University. Buzzard will lead a discussion related to potential challenges facing churches in light of the recent actions of the Supreme Court of the United States regarding same-sex marriage; these actions have legalized same-sex marriage in North Carolina.
Directors of missions across the state have already received resources developed by BSC staff, in consultation with Buzzard, titled, “Samples and Templates for the Development of Position Statements on Marriage, Wedding Policies and Facility Use Policies.” This resource has been provided to directors of missions for their use as they assist church leaders with legal issues.
While the development of appropriate policies are an important first step in addressing potential challenges, policies alone should not be the focus of the church regarding same-sex marriage. “The gospel cannot and should not be reduced to a policy. There will be great opportunities to share the life transforming truths of Jesus, while standing firmly upon the teachings of scripture about marriage, as we engage our communities and culture,” said Brian Davis, BSC associate executive director-treasurer.
The seminar, while addressing policies, will engage participants in conversation about the larger issue of the church and homosexuality.
The seminar will take place from 3:30-5 p.m. in Auditorium IV, located on the third floor of the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro. If you have not received a copy of the samples and templates, this document is also available for download from the BSC’s Christian Life and Public Affairs blog: http://blog.ncbaptist.org/clpa/