Polyamory Spotlight: Presbyterian Church Faces Progressive Challenges

The Presbyterian Church (USA) is facing tensions over a proposed requirement for ordained clergy to be monogamous. The proposal, labeled CON-10, will be discussed during the General Assembly this summer. This proposal has stirred online discussion but lacks widespread support among PCUSA groups. In contrast, another proposal suggests conducting theological studies on gender, sexuality, relationships, and the Christian concept of family. These efforts aim to reflect the growing visibility of polyamory in cultural discussions, potentially influencing policies in progressive Christian denominations.

Rev. Claudia Aguilar Rubalcava, director of engagement for More Light Presbyterians, highlighted the relevance of polyamory as a significant subject for mainline denominations. The organization addressed the proposal on monogamy, suggesting it targets queer communities. According to More Light Presbyterians, the proposal emphasizes one relationship model as the sole faithful expression of Christian life, disregarding diverse biblical teachings and the experiences of numerous faithful individuals.

The current governing documents of PCUSA do not mention polyamory. The 2011 amendment to the Book of Order removed previous language requiring ordained clergy to maintain fidelity within a heterosexual marriage. Now, marriage is defined as a unique commitment between two people, traditionally a man and a woman, to love and support each other throughout life.

While CON-10 would mandate ordained ministers to engage in monogamous sexual relationships, stating polyamory and polygamy may lead to power imbalances and emotional harm, it requires approval from delegates at the General Assembly and ratification by over half of PCUSA’s presbyteries. So far, only the Presbytery of Sierra Blanca has endorsed it, whereas advisory committees recommend voting against it. Concerns include the overture’s attempt to regulate intimate lives and its unclear wording.

Yet, conversations about polyamory within PCUSA have been occurring for years, especially regarding ministering to nonmonogamous congregants. Kate Davoli, co-moderator on the More Light Presbyterians board, pointed out that polyamory might be more common than assumed. Supporting this claim, a 2021 Kinsey Institute study found that about 1 in 9 single adults had experienced polyamorous relationships.

Other denominations confront similar issues. The Episcopal Church considered studying diverse family structures but did not advance a resolution. Meanwhile, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada is working on national resources for discussions on ethical non-monogamous relationships.

Despite these developments, some Christians see polyamory as incompatible with their beliefs. Matthew Vines, a theologically conservative Christian and author, described the PCUSA overture on monogamy as not indicative of true support for nonmonogamy within the church. Some believe that linking polyamory to LGBTQ inclusion could undermine acceptance of LGBTQ Christians.

Advocates for polyamory often highlight the variety of biblical relationship models. More Light Presbyterians recently hosted “Faithful Polyamory 101” training, promoting the idea that the Trinity exemplifies mutual love similar to polyamory. The General Assembly will address both the monogamy overture and the proposed relationship study by the end of its meeting on July 2.

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