CHICAGO (ELCA) -- The Rev. Steven P. Sabin, Ames, Iowa, has appealed a determination of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) that he be removed the church's clergy roster, effective April 15. Sabin is gay and lives with a partner.
On Feb. 3 an ELCA discipline hearing committee ruled that within ELCA guidelines Sabin "must be considered a practicing homosexual" and is "precluded from the ordained ministry of this church." The hearing in Des Moines drew national attention.
Notification that Sabin had filed an appeal reached the ELCA's Office of the Secretary here March 3. The ELCA's Committee on Appeals, a 12-member group elected by the Churchwide Assembly, has been notified. A decision of the committee is final.
Sabin serves as pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Ames. He has requested that the Appeal Committee delay his removal from the clergy roster pending its decision on his appeal.
For information contact:
Ann Hafften, Director (773) 380-2958 or NEWS@ELCA.ORG
http://www.elca.org/co/news/current.html
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About the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America:
The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with 2.8 million members in more than 8,500 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of "God's work. Our hands.," the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA's roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther.
For information contact:
Candice Hill Buchbinder
Public Relations Manager
Candice.HillBuchbinder@ELCA.org
