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Bruce Robbins, former general secretary of the General Commission on Christian Unity within the denomination, participated in the roundtable talks and said he believes Hinson and Heidinger may have misinterpreted the positions expressed by liberals during the ad-hoc meetings.

Robbins said that his comments, in particular,about the need for "space" within the denomination were not referring to a denominational split. "I was speaking about ways we can remain in one church, as a United Methodist Church," Robbins said. "I have no interest in calling for a separation."

Robbins said he was calling for "space for different persons in the church to be able to live out what they think is authentic to the gospel … in a way that does not force other people to compromise their beliefs."

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More Christianity Today coverage of homosexuality and the United Methodist Church includes:

Lesbian Is Eligible for Reappointment, Bishop Says | Differing interpretations of Methodist court ruling prolong denomination's fight. (May 06, 2004)

Methodists Strengthen Stand Against Homosexual Practice | Lesbian pastor may not be reappointed. (May 05, 2004)

Weblog: Methodist Council Says Homosexuality Is 'Incompatible' with Christian Teaching (May 03, 2004)

Flouting Church Law | Two gay controversies likely to dominate United Methodist General Conference this week. (May 2004)

A Methodist Mob Mugging | There are real victims in the farce that was the Methodist church trial of a lesbian minister. (March 25, 2004)

Weblog: Methodist Court Acquits Homosexual Minister (March 22, 2004)

Weblog: Methodist Trial Opens With Arrests, Comparison to Crucifixion (March 18, 2004)

Weblog: In the United Methodist Church, a Trial Comes After the Court's Decision (Dec. 18, 2001)

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May (Web-only) 2004, Vol. 48