Baptists from the Baptist Union (BU) are finding themselves facing controversy over homosexuality, as one of the regional associations has dissented from the denomination’s declared position, citing it as unbibli-cal and has attempted to outlaw its churches from conducting same sex marriages, it was reported on 24 April.
The West of England Baptist Association (WEBA) – one of 13 BU regional associations – has effectively challenged guidance issued by the BU which says each minister can make up its own mind on the issue of same sex marriage.
Setting national standards
The matter of what is or isn’t allowed is complex for BU churches because of the way they are structured: each church is independent, but the BU is responsible for setting national standards for the conduct of ministers. After same sex marriage was introduced in the UK, the BU issued guidance at its Assembly.
