The West Ohio Annual Conference Board of Ordained Ministry (BOM) has recently established a policy that opens the door for clergy previously terminated or forced to surrender their ministerial orders due to sexual orientation, gender identity, or officiating same-gender weddings, to be reinstated into active ministry. This significant policy aligns with the General Conference legislation passed in May 2024, which addresses these sensitive issues and paves the way for justice and inclusivity within the church.

Who is Eligible?

This policy applies to any former clergy who:

· Were terminated or surrendered their orders, or had their membership or license for ministry revoked due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, or participation in officiating at same-gender weddings or unions.

· Submit a formal written request for reinstatement before the December 31, 2024 deadline.

The Reinstatement Process

The reinstatement process is thorough, ensuring fairness and transparency. After submitting a written request to both the Chair of the BOM and the Bishop, the applicant's clergy file will be reviewed by the BOM Conference Relations Committee. A background check will be conducted, and the individual will participate in an interview to assess their readiness to reenter ministry.

Additionally, individuals must provide written acknowledgment that they are not entitled to back pay or pension credits for the period they were not in ministry.

Final Decision

Once all steps are completed, the Conference Relations Committee will make a recommendation to the BOM Executive Committee, which will vote on the reinstatement request. If approved, the request moves to a vote at the Clergy Session of the Annual Conference. If both votes are favorable, reinstatement is immediate, and the clergy person regains their membership status, rights, privileges, and original ordination or provisional certificates.

What If Reinstatement Is Denied?

In cases where reinstatement is denied, either the former clergy person or their bishop may request a review by another Annual Conference. Requests for review must be submitted by May 15, 2025 for the initial reinstatement decision and can be extended until November 30, 2025, for reviews by other Annual Conferences.

Effective Immediately

This policy is effective immediately, following the adoption of the West Ohio Annual Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, providing a timely avenue for reinstatement and reconciliation.

This landmark policy recognizes the importance of healing past wounds and allows clergy who were previously excluded from ministry due to their LGBTQ+ identification or support of same-gender unions the opportunity to serve once more.