Questionnaire 1: Question 7 - Yes Responses

'I have based this answer on hope rather than experience’

‘Methodism welcomes all’

‘All are welcome in Methodism’

‘I think so because they are already accepted into roles of responsibility in the church.’

‘They feel that all are welcome to God’s house.  “If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me,” Jesus said.’

‘Church open to all for friendship and support’

‘It is known that such male or female ministers have been ordained in the Methodist Church.’

‘All people are welcome to hear the word of God’

‘I can only speak for my own circuit in ***, but in the 1980s we had a gay minister at my church and also at 3 other churches in the circuit and we found him to be a very kind and caring man and also an excellent preacher with a great sense of humour.’

‘Yes they do, but not in positions of authority’

‘I suppose some would, but the feedback I get talking to people, it is splitting the church.  Loads have said they will not be coming in church, as in the Bible, it is man and woman not man and man or women and women, the people I have spoke to believe in God but are doing their praying and praising God at home.’

‘You should not turn anyone away’

‘I believe the church is changing and accommodating its beliefs in the above’

‘As far as I know’

‘Don’t really know’

‘Yes, but at circuit/local church level problems will occur despite the official welcome by the Methodist Church.’

‘I feel that the church welcomes people but I do not feel they should agree with the practise of gays and lesbians.’

'There are such members’

'I can’t see why not as we know two lesbians who are very nice genuine people.’