Marry-go-round: Which religious officials in Oklahoma may officiate at gay weddings depends largely

[rug]

Which religious leaders in Oklahoma may officiate at gay weddings depends largely upon faith beliefs and denominational structure, clergy say.

by Carla Hinton
Published: October 11, 2014

The Rev. Trina Bose North would like to, but her denomination says she can’t.

However, the Rev. Timothy Blodgett received his denomination’s green light to do so just a few months ago.

And the Rev. Nick Garland isn’t considering it at all.

The issue is same-sex marriage.

http://newsok.com/marry-go-round-which-religious-officials-in-oklahoma-may-officiate-at-gay-weddings-depends-largely-upon-denominational-structure/article/5352338

[LiberalFighter]

1. If same sex couples have difficulty finding a clergy person of their faith

willing to perform the ceremony then they should ask themselves why they should continue being a member of the congregation.

[cbayer]

2. There is nothing in the article to suggest that couples are having

trouble finding clergy, in fact quite the opposite.

And, the reasons why people stay are expressed clearly in the article.

No sure what it is you are responding to here.

[LiberalFighter]

3. The fact that there are clergies that won't perform the ceremony indicates a reduction.

And don't forget that depending on the faith a couple may not find someone willing to perform. And they would have two alternatives if they are willing. Either a clergy person of a different faith that is willing to perform for a couple of a different faith. Or a civil ceremony.

[cbayer]

4. Indicates a reduction of what?

There are more and more ministers that are performing these ceremonies, but there are some that will never do it.

Again, the article does not bring up objections by couples at all. There are plenty of options.

Overall, things are looking very positive, but expecting 100% buy in is setting an unattainable bar.

[LiberalFighter]

5. Do you understand there are possibly some denominations that won't allow marriage?

And if a couple's preference is having a religious ceremony their choices will be greatly reduced?

Many denominations are very strict about marrying couples outside their denomination.

[cbayer]

7. Yes, I do understand that.

I think your challenge is better aimed at the clergy within those denominations than the members.

The choices are expanding both for clergy and for individuals. I do thing that those denominations that do not adapt will see an exodus and that they will be marginalized.

In the meantime, the numbers of denominations that are evolving to endorse same sex marriages are growing.

[LiberalFighter]

8. I agree with that.

But it doesn't increase the choices for all. It likely will for others.

[cbayer]

9. In general, I think we have much more to celebrate at this point than

to criticize.

There is no way we are going to go backwards at this point, and I feel like the victory is ours.

[Manifestor_of_Light]

6. UCC or UU ministers don't have a problem with gay marriage.

The biggest UU congregation in the United States is in Tulsa.