2 July 2021

Statement from the Bishop and Presidents

It was reported that The Methodist Church of Great Britain has recently allowed for same-sex marriages, although clergy may refrain from conducting nor blessing them.

This decision has no influence nor impact on the position of The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS). Each national Methodist Church is responsible for its own position on this matter and MCS’s position is clearly stated in our Social Principles, which affirm that:

a) Human sexuality is a gift of God. Sexual intercourse is a sacred experience only
when it is accompanied by the love and fidelity of a holy matrimony between a man and a woman. We believe that sexual intercourse outside the bonds of matrimony is contrary to the will of God.

b) We recognise that the issue of sexuality is divisive because it is also deeply personal to our identity. While not the only characteristic, sexuality is an important part of our humanity. However, the fallen human condition also includes sexual brokenness, the condition by which our perception of sex has distorted what God has intended sex to be.

c) We affirm that as Christians, the fundamental ground of our identity is found in Christ alone – regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, social status or sexuality.

d) We acknowledge that sexual brokenness, which afflicts all humanity, is manifested in several ways, including the exploitation of sex, addiction to pornography, same-sex attraction and gender dysphoria.

e) Everyone needs the healing and transforming power of God’s grace and the welcoming hospitality of the church. The Church should minister and guide with faithfulness, courage and love, that out of our brokenness we may grow in holiness.

Let’s Love God By Loving Our Neighbour!