Overture 70

On Commending Study of the Definitive Guidance of 1978—From the Presbytery of Stockton.

The Presbytery of Stockton overtures the 217th General Assembly (2006) to direct the Stated Clerk to send to each congregation in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) a pastoral letter explaining the role of an authoritative interpretation of the Constitution, a copy of the “Policy Statements and Recommendations” from the 1978 report “The Church and Homosexuality” (also known as the Authoritative Interpretation of 1993), and a brief study guide prepared by the Office of Theology and Worship and commended to sessions and congregations for study of this authoritative interpretation. The study guide shall be written in a manner sympathetic to the standards and intention of the Authoritative Interpretation of 1993, commending it to congregations as the historic policy of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). It shall be sent to congregations no later than one year prior to the convening of the 218th General Assembly (2008).

In response to a call from the church and with much prayer, study, and pastoral concern, the UPCUSA General Assembly in 1978 listened to the voice of God and established the Policy Statements and Recommendations on homosexuality that became known as “Definitive Guidance.” These same Policy Statements and Recommendations were adopted in 1979 by the Presbyterian Church in the U.S. They were later given the status of an authoritative interpretation by the 205th General Assembly (1993) of the PC(USA). The authoritative interpretation spoke clearly and lovingly about the nature of human sexuality, shining the light of Christ’s love, grace, and call to discipleship. This authoritative interpretation has been used since then in the establishment of case law by the General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission.

The creation of this definitive guidance/authoritative interpretation and subsequent endorsements of it have been the result of God speaking amid periods of extensive biblical and theological reflection. Through numerous periods of much study, dialogue, and discernment, the church has repeatedly failed to find that this authoritative interpretation is in error, for it is not.

The mission of Christ’s church has been enhanced by this authoritative interpretation, which calls us to love all those whom God has made and gives substance and meaning to that love. The authoritative interpretation lifts up both the grace and call to obedience of our Lord and has helped followers of Jesus Christ to live in greater holiness and witness.

In recent years, and particularly at the 216th General Assembly (2004), misstatements and untruths have been voiced concerning the words and tone of the authoritative interpretation—statements that betray a lack of familiarity with this vital document in our denominational life and which clouded and distorted the consideration of the authoritative interpretation at the 216th General Assembly (2004). Inasmuch as this document is likely to be further discussed, it will be for the good of all to have an accurate knowledge of the topic. Therefore, broad-based study is commended for the enlightenment, edification, and unification of our denomination.