CNP Celebrates Presbyteries’ Approval of Amendment 24-A, Recognizing LGBTQIA+ People in Church Constitution

The Covenant Network of Presbyterians rejoices in the ratification of Amendment 24-A enshrining, for the first time, recognition of LGBTQIA+ people in the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), and declaring the denomination’s commitment to their full participation and representation in the church’s worship, governance and emerging life.

“People of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations have faced a long and difficult journey to be seen and respected in the PCUSA, and we’re still a long way from equity in many areas of church life,” said the Rev. Brian Ellison, executive director of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians. “Still, this vote marks a significant milestone aligning our governing documents with our stated values, and demanding that all who would serve as leaders in our midst take seriously their responsibility to avoid discrimination and honor all people.” 

The change, which takes effect July 4, 2025, adds the phrases “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” to section F-1.0403, where they join “race, ethnicity, age, sex, disability, geography, or theological conviction” as categories that may not be the basis for discrimination in the church’s life. The change is the culmination of efforts that began with 10 presbyteries sending the proposed change to last summer’s General Assembly. 

“In a time when trans and nonbinary people are often seen as political issues instead of actual humans, it is powerful to see Presbyterians from all over the country say, ‘We believe that LGBTQIA+ folks are beloved children of God,’” said Slats Toole, co-moderator of the CNP Board of Directors. “When the General Assembly passed these amendments this past summer, none of us could have known that we’d be voting on their ratification in days when companies and organizations would be rolling back their stances on inclusion. It is a beautiful example of the Spirit preparing a way for us to witness to the image of God in people of all genders and sexualities.”

By CNP’s count, 84 of the church’s 166 presbyteries have affirmed the amendment as of March 11, which is the majority required for passage. The Covenant Network calls on presbyteries that have yet to vote to continue supporting 24-A and also to ratify Amendment 24-C, which will require ordaining and installing bodies to include questions about a candidate’s commitment to the principles of participation and representation. Amendment 24-C would not require particular answers, but would provide additional information to sessions and presbyteries, which retain the freedom to make ordination and installation decisions.

“The final approval of Amendment 24-A is a prophetic and necessary step toward ensuring that LGBTQIA+ people are fully seen, valued, and included in the life of our denomination,” said the Rev. TJ Remaley, co-moderator of the CNP Board. “Yet as we celebrate this milestone, we must also recognize that the work of equity continues! The approval of Amendment 24-C is essential for us to align our practices with our principles. If 24-A is a statement of what we believe to be true about who we are called to be as the body of Christ, then 24-C is a statement of our intention as to how we will live out those beliefs in our shared life together.”

The Covenant Network of Presbyterians has a “Frequently Asked Questions” document for those still considering their votes on the amendments.