http://www.news-press.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060926/NEWS0103/609260379/1075Members of a Lehigh Acres ministerial group are discussing changes to their vision statement four months after a lesbian pastor was elected to the groups leadership, a vote that resulted in a heated conflict.
The Lehigh Area Ministerial Association, which plans community-wide services and supports local social service agencies, met for the first time last week since a conflict developed among members in May.
The rift occurred after the Rev. Glenna Tibbs, a lesbian pastor, was elected treasurer of the group. Some members had a problem having a lesbian in a leadership position and at least one member has left.
"I am not coming back this year," said the Rev. Larry Gutridge of Lehigh Acres Christian Church. "I just can't do it. I have no plans of returning to the organization."