Episcopalians here stop move against gay priests

By Darrell Holland

Religion Editor

The annual convention here of the Ohio Episcopal Diocese defeated yesterday a resolution that would, in effect, have excluded homosexuals from priesthood.

The proposal, turned down 164 to 139, not only said that a homosexual could not be ordained, but also said that anyone who advocates homosexuality may not be ordained.

The diocese, however, did not say whether it would favor the admission of gays to priesthood. It was noted during the discussion that bishops determine who may be ordained.

The resolution was an attempt to join with at least two other dioceses that have condemned the ordination last month in New York City of an avowed lesbian.

But, one delegate said during the debate, "One's sexuality is one's own business. Don't tell me about your sexuality and I'll not tell you about mine.'

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Another delegate, the Rev. Charles M. Irish of Bath, O., supported the resolution, arguing that the church should know the difference "between sin and no sin."

"Homosexuality is an abominable sin," the

Rev. Mr. Irish said, "and it has been condemned for 6,000 years. Any person who recommends sin can't be a priest."

The diocesan Committee on the Ministry probably will deal with the question of homosexuality in the future.

The committee has prepared. a paper on homosexuality, and has consulted with medical, psychological and theological experts on the issue. But diocesan officials refused to release the report.

Another resolution, which was referred to the social relations department of the diocese, asked the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to remove schools from the commercial classification and assign them to the human needs category so that schools would be given priority in gas allocations during the energy crisis.

Several teachers, who were delegates, said interruption of classes is having a devastating effect on children and their potential to lead the nation.

Olwyn Riddell of Oberlin arguing that schools be permitted gas to remain open, said, "If our children are not taught, who is going to run gas companies in the next generation?”

The diocese also asked the Ohio Legislature to revoke capital punishment.