“The GAPJC is hiding behind process in both cases, creating the ‘worst case scenario.’ Two cases with identical facts, one of them presenting a legal argument, the other a doctrinal argument, were brought. The legal case is declared moot, opening the door to the ordination of practicing homosexuals in the PCUSA. The doctrinal case is remanded to synod for more process. In both cases, the GAPJC dodged the issue which is legitimately its to decide”

The PCUSA General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission has posted its decisions on two ordination cases: Parnell, et al, vs. Presbytery of San Francisco and Session of Caledonia Presbyterian Church, et. al., vs. Presbytery of John Knox. The commission heard the cases on July 29 in Louisville, Ky.

In the Parnell case, the appellants argued that same-sex behavior violates the teachings of Scripture and the confessions. Instead of ruling on that argument, the GAPJC sent the question back to the Synod of the Pacific Permanent Judicial Commission (SPJC).

“While the Appellants’ complaint was based primarily on G-6.0106b, the appellants clearly and consistently presented arguments at trial on the basis of scriptural and confessional standards without objection by the presbytery. Since the doctrinal issue is central to the appellants’ case, it was error for the SPJC not to expressly rule upon the issue,” the ruling read.

The GAPJC also encouraged the presbytery to re-examine the candidate, Lisa Larges — a lesbian in a same-sex relationship — based on the new constitutional ordination language which does not prohibit the ordination of those who engage in sex outside of marriage.

In the Caledonia case, the GAPJC granted the respondent’s motion to dismiss the appeal as moot, since it was based on G-6.0106b, language that no longer exists in the PCUSA’s constitution since Amendment 10A was approved.

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