With the legalization of same-sex marriage in Minnesota, the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area (PTCA) issued a reminder to churches that civil action by the legislature does not affect the Book of Order, which governs the Presbyterian Church (USA). … Even though states have legalized gay marriage, the PCUSA constitution still prohibits clergy from performing such ceremonies and using space for same-sex unions.

With the legalization of same-sex marriage in Minnesota, the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area (PTCA) issued a reminder to churches that civil action by the legislature does not affect the Book of Order, which governs the Presbyterian Church (USA).

Presbytery officials sent out an email blast May 17 to its 71 member congregations about action by the Minnesota legislature taken earlier in May regarding same-sex unions.

On May 14, Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton signed into law the same-sex marriage bill that takes effect Aug. 1. His signature on the new law came a day after the Senate passed the measure by a 37-30 vote. A week before, the bill passed the House of Representatives by a 75-59 margin.

Minnesota becomes the 12th state to enact legislation approving gay marriage. Over a 10-day period earlier this month, Delaware, Rhode Island and Minnesota all gave the OK for such civil unions to become legal.

The other nine states that have approved same-sex marriages are Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont, New York, New Hampshire, Maryland, Maine and Washington.

Even though states have legalized gay marriage, the PCUSA constitution still prohibits clergy from performing such ceremonies and using space for same-sex unions.

The text of the email alert sent to churches in PTCA outlined the matter. It reads:

“Dear Friends,

“On Tuesday, May 14th Governor Mark Dayton signed into law the Freedom to Marry Act legalizing same-sex marriage in the state of Minnesota. It is a sweeping and dramatic change in the legal standing of marriage in this state. This action will create a new landscape regarding ceremonies that are permissible in the life of Minnesota faith communities and each will navigate that landscape according to their particular polity. Some of our own Presbyterian clergy may be asked to perform such ceremonies. This change in civil law in Minnesota does not affect the Book of Order which establishes the parameters of our covenantal life together. While it may create a difficult situation for some from a pastoral care standpoint, The PC(USA) constitution prohibits Presbyterian clergy from performing same-sex marriage ceremonies. Congregations are also prohibited from using space to conduct such ceremonies. PC(USA) clergy are permitted to do services of blessing for a couple, but these are not to be understood as a marriage ceremony. Civil laws and ecclesiastical standards have always moved at different paces. This is the current reality in that intersection.

“Questions on this matter can be addressed to the Executive Presbyter, the Stated Clerk, or the General Assembly office of Constitutional services.”

For more information, please download the Advisory Opinion on Marriage and Same-Gender Ceremonies.

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