Methodist split more about politics than Christianity

The recent decision by 83 Methodist churches in Iowa to break away from the 700-plus Methodist denomination strikes me as being a reflection of the culture wars being waged by the state Republicans. I understand that the policies regarding same-sex marriage and acceptance of LGBTQ (forgive me if I missed a letter) individuals is not the only reason for the decisions to leave the larger group, but it is certainly the most advertised one. Think about the Christian philosophy regarding providing help to the unfortunate, be they lepers, political dissidents, homeless people, orphans, Jews, etc. Now why are the various members of the LBGTQ community excluded from receiving Christian charity?

I lived with a Lutheran pastor for a brief period as a teenager. I was exposed to some members of the congregation that objected to my seeing a Catholic girl. Fortunately, my pastor was completely understanding of my personal relationships. I consider myself to be agnostic and my wife and kids are as well. Furthermore, I have had friends and employees that were members of the LBGTQ community that I have the utmost respect for. I truly wish that I could say the same for the current Republican controlled government and any Christian body influenced by it.

Gordon Taylor

Anamosa