MEDIA STATEMENT 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Methodists Reach Understanding 

The Methodist Church of New Zealand has reached an understanding which allows the church to move forward on the ordination of gay and lesbian people. 

This is an issue which has been under debate for more than ten years, says President Dr Lynne Frith. 

A Memorandum of Understanding has been prepared which acknowledges the diversity of the church, the integrity of differing beliefs, and respects difference. 

Dr Frith says that within the membership of the Methodist Church there are those who agree with the ordination of gay and lesbian people and those who do not. 

The Memorandum enables those with markedly different beliefs to remain in relationship with each other within the church. 

It reaffirms that all candidates for ordination must meet the criteria of the church and that all placement of ministers is done with careful consultation. 

This is a moment in the history of our church in which we can take pride, says Dr Frith. 

Lynne Frith 
President 
Methodist Church of New Zealand