The United Methodist church has lifted its four-decade ban on LGBT clergy members.
On Wednesday with no debate, church delegates repealed a ban prohibiting “self-avowed practicing homosexuals” from being ordained or appointed as ministers.
Delegates voted 692-51 at their first General Conference in five years, a sharp contrast to previous conferences, which have upheld the ban.
The ban was initially introduced in 1984.
Penalties for celebrating same-sex marriages were also overturned. The United Methodist church had previously put performing same-sex unions on a list of offenses that could result in a church trial.
The General Conference was held at the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Many LGBT supporters in attendance at the conference reacted emotionally, hugging and crying at the decision, according to United Methodist News. Applause also broke out after…
