PCUSA Considers Overture on Monogamy for Clergy

The upcoming General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) will address a proposal requiring ordained clergy to practice monogamy. This initiative, named CON-10, has sparked significant online discussion but lacks widespread backing from PCUSA groups.

Another proposal calls for theological studies emphasizing gender, sexuality, and the Christian family vocation. These studies are intended to support the denomination’s pledge to respect various familial structures. As discussions about polyamory increase within the broader culture, these overtures could influence policies, especially in theologically progressive Christian denominations.

Rev. Claudia Aguilar Rubalcava, director of engagement at More Light Presbyterians, remarked, “I think it is the next big conversation that most mainline denominations will have.”

Recently, More Light Presbyterians criticized the proposal, stating it focuses disproportionately on queer communities and stresses monogamy as the sole faithful representation of Christian relationships. They argue that the Bible offers diverse perspectives on covenant, mutuality, justice, and love without prescribing a singular relational model.

During speaking engagements, Aguilar Rubalcava often encounters Presbyterians seeking support for polyamorous relationships. Kate Davoli, co-moderator of More Light Presbyterians, shared that she was dismissed from the ordination process for being openly polyamorous, as confirmed by the Pittsburgh Presbytery.

Currently, the PCUSA’s governing guidelines do not mention polyamory, which involves emotionally intimate, often sexual, relationships with multiple individuals. In 2011, the denomination revised its Book of Order, removing requirements for ordained clergy concerning marital fidelity between a man and woman or singleness chastity.

CON-10 aims to mandate monogamous relationships for ordained PCUSA ministers, citing potential power imbalances and emotional harm associated with polyamory or polygamy. For approval, it needs favorable votes from delegates at the General Assembly in late June and ratification by the majority of over 160 presbyteries. However, it currently lacks widespread support.

Three advisory committees have suggested voting against the proposal, citing issues with its narrow family definition and unclear language. Another committee noted it does not adequately adhere to amending protocol for the denomination’s constitution.

Meanwhile, another overture called “Beyond Changing Families: Flourishing Relationships and Belonging,” recommends creating a theological framework for relational ethics. Davoli highlighted that grassroots discussions about polyamory and ministry to nonmonogamous congregants have existed within the PCUSA for years.

Davoli noted that polyamory is more common than presumed, referencing a 2021 Kinsey Institute study indicating that approximately 1 in 9 single adults have experienced polyamorous relationships.

Other denominations are also examining their positions on polyamory. Episcopal priests have renounced their ordination due to conflicts between their church roles and family structures. The Episcopal Church considered, but did not advance, a resolution to study diverse family structures. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada moved to create resources for conversations on ethical non-monogamous relationships.

Matthew Vines, author of “God and the Gay Christian” and an advocate for LGBTQ Christians, mentioned that the PCUSA overture does not accurately reflect support for non-monogamy within the denomination. Vines cautioned against linking polyamory to LGBTQ inclusion, suggesting it could undermine hard-earned acceptance.

Christian supporters of polyamory often highlight various biblical relational models, distinguishing between polygamy, which often involves hierarchy, and modern polyamory focused on consensual, safe relationships.

In May, More Light Presbyterians conducted a “Faithful Polyamory 101” session. This training depicted the Trinity as exemplifying mutual, overflowing love, mirrored in polyamorous relationships.

Davoli remarked, “The ability to love our neighbor sometimes includes … a deep intimate affection beyond one person, which helps us follow the commandment to love one another faithfully.”

The General Assembly will conclude by July 2 with decisions regarding the monogamy overture and relational studies.