Press Release
On January 26, 2008, at a Special Called meeting of the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area, meeting at Christ Presbyterian Church in Edina, Minnesota the Presbytery voted on the following motions:
“The Committee on Ministry recommends that Dr. Capetz declared departure from G-0106b be not found to constitute a failure to adhere to the essentials of Reformed faith and polity under G-6.0108 of the Book of Order.”
On the Motion of the first recommendation from the Committee on Ministry:
197 yes, 84 no, 2 abstentions
“The Committee on Ministry recommends that Dr. Paul Capetz be restored to the exercise of ordained office of Minister of Word and Sacrament.”
On the Motion of the second recommendation from the Committee on Ministry:
196 yes, 79 no, 3 abstentions
“The Committee on Ministry recommends that Dr. Capetz service as Associate Professor at United Theological Seminary in New Brighton, MN be validated.”
On the Motion of the third recommendation from the Committee on Ministry:
Passed by voice vote.
Sarai Schnucker, Interim Executive Presbyter has this to say on the day’s proceedings:
“We are overwhelmed by the grace and love that this Presbytery exhibited today. The members of the Presbytery have conducted themselves with respect and restraint, even while handling such a controversial issue. As a Presbytery we listened to each other and heard each other. In the midst of this time of debate and discernment, there was true worship by the body of Christ as we sang songs and broke bread together.
We are unaware of what might take place as a result of today, but we have come together as the Body of Christ and we are grateful for the presence of the Spirit with us. Thanks be to God.”
Dennis Sanders
IT/Communications Specialist
Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area
communications@ptcaweb.org
An unrepentant sinner should not be installed into the clergy. The bible lists homosexual behavior among many other sins.
How has the liberal agenda managed to distort the bible enough to justify this action? They would risk splitting the church rather than reject the cultural pressure of “anything goes”.
This action brings great saddness.
By: Robert Haberkorn on January 29, 2008
at 3:04 am
Dear commissioners,
I too praise God that you have recognized the gifts that Dr. Capetz brings to the body of Christ. I am writing my doctoral thesis on the Gay and lesbian debate in the PC(USA). The decision by the COM and Presbytery shows that the PUP report was not in vain, but that Presbyteries should and have the power to ordain and instal those whom they believe are called by God to ministry. Blessings on the journey ahead.
Rev. Roché Vermaak
Brentwood Presbyterian Church
Los Angeles
By: Rev. Roché Vermaak on January 30, 2008
at 6:46 am