FROM GRANT McMURRAY
President of Community of Christ 1996-2004

October 2002

Dear Friend,

The World Church Leadership Council met in a retreat setting September 15-19 to seek God's direction as we discussed important issues facing the church. The Holy Spirit united us as we spent time reflecting on our personal call to discipleship and how we can support you and your congregation in achieving the sharing goal--Share your witness and resources. The Council of Twelve Apostles brought personal testimonies of congregations that are growing as they live out their witness and "Each one, reach one." The Presiding Bishopric provided new insights into how we can each "honor God's call to tithe," recognizing the strong relationship between witnessing and generosity, which both flow from our response to God's love and grace. The sharing goal challenges us to lives of hope by grasping opportunities to witness and giving generously in the midst of economic and political uncertainty.

During our retreat we also discussed other key issues, such as mission center process, budget projections that initially show a decrease in tithes and offerings, and improvement of interquorum functions and working relationships. As the Council reviewed a dialogue process to advance understanding on the issues surrounding homosexuality, we recognized the need to develop a statement to provide further guidance to the church on this sensitive and important matter and clarify our intent to follow the provisions of the 1982 policy. “Community, Common Consent, and the Issue of Homosexuality” accompanies this letter and will be printed in the November Herald and be available on the church’s Web site on October 2. Please feel free to share it with your congregation.

As church leaders we commit our lives to serving God and you. As we unite in the Good Spirit may we embody the life and ministry of Jesus as we live our witness and invite others to join us in the building of the peaceable kingdom–Zion.

Warm personal regards,
W. Grant McMurray, president
Community of Christ

World Church Leadership Council Statement on "Community, Common Consent, and the Issue of Homosexuality"