School of Divinity to Co-Sponsor Forum on Amendment One

The proposed amendment to the North Carolina constitution, scheduled for a statewide vote May 8, defines marriage between one man and one woman as the only valid domestic legal union recognized in the state. At its convention here in January, the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina passed a resolution opposing Amendment One.

The panel discussion will be moderated by St. Paul’s rector, the Rev. David B. Hodges.

“St. Paul’s is one of several Episcopal parishes and a number of churches of other denominations hosting similar sessions around the state to discuss the practical implications and theological issues surrounding the amendment,” said Hodges. “We greatly appreciate our panelists’ willingness to share their perspectives and expertise, and we look forward to a thoughtful, informative discussion.”

“Educating religious leaders to be agents of justice, reconciliation and compassion in their communities is an essential part of the mission of the School of Divinity,” said Dr. Gail R. O’Day, dean and professor of New Testament and preaching at the Wake Forest University School of Divinity. “This forum provides the opportunity for civil and informed discussion of an amendment to the North Carolina state constitution that would have a negative impact on the civil rights of many North Carolinians. The School of Divinity is pleased to help make this discussion possible.”

Among the nine panelists discussing religious, legal, business and social justice aspects of the proposed amendment will be Dr. Derek Hicks, Henry Luce Diversity Fellow and professor at the School of Divinity. Also from the Wake Forest University faculty is panelist Suzanne Reynolds, executive associate dean for academic affairs and law professor at the Wake Forest University School of Law.

Other panelists are Elise M. Whitley, a board-certified family law specialist at Tash & Kurtz, Dan Besse, a public interest attorney and educator and member of the Winston-Salem City Council, and Elisabeth Motsinger, an at-large member of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School Board and candidate for Congress representing North Carolina’s Fifth District.

Panelists associated with St. Paul’s are the Rev. Dr. Chantal B. McKinney, associate rector for mission and parish life, the Rev. Michael R. Bradshaw, deacon and outreach minister, the Rev. Dr. Corey G. Miller, United Methodist pastor in residence at St. Paul’s and director of development at Crisis Control Ministry, and Jack Scruggs, a parishioner and employee assistance counselor for Wake Forest Baptist Health.

Media Contact:

The Rev. Dr. Chantal B. McKinney  |  Associate Rector for Mission and Parish Life, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

Mark Batten  |  Assistant Director of Admissions Operations and Communications, School of Divinity