ELCA names director of sexuality study

Christian Century, Jan 30, 2002

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has named a respected seminary professor to lead the denomination through a four-year study on homosexuality that could shape the ELCNs positions on same-sex unions and gay clergy. James M. Childs Jr., 62, was to start the work February 1, taking a leave from his endowed professorship in theology and ethics at Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio.

When the ELCA met last August in Indianapolis, delegates authorized the four-year study and asked for a social statement on human sexuality. Delegates opted for the study after rejecting a proposal to remove the church's ban on noncelibate gay clergy. A progress report will be given to the church when it meets next year, and a final report and recommendations will be given in 2005.

Childs promised that the study will be open to differing views, and colleagues praised him as open-minded and fair. "The sexuality studies that the church has mandated are of critical importance," he said in a church news release. "There is a great deal at stake for our witness to the gospel, our understanding of authority, our capacity for moral deliberation, and our care for one another in maintaining `the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace,'" he said, quoting the apostle Paul.

The study will be overseen by two church agencies, the Division for Ministry and the Division for Church and Society. Joseph M. Wagner, head of the ministry office, said Childs is perfect for the job. "He is open-minded," Wagner said. "He has been a seminary dean for 20 years, so he knows how to work with people. I think he has just the right blend of qualities for the director of the study."

Childs, a professor at Trinity since 1978, has authored seven books and holds degrees from Concordia Senior College, Concordia Seminary, Union Theological Seminary and the Lutheran School of Theology.--ENI