Split over gay marriage leads to St. Paul church closing
Published 9:22 am Sunday, July 1, 2012
ST. PAUL — A St. Paul church that lost most of its congregation over the pastor’s support of gay marriage is closing.
The Rev. Oliver White said the Grace Community United Church of Christ will seek a new home. He said church leaders declined to extend a Saturday deadline to raise about $200,000 to pay off a high-interest loan and legal fees.
White said it will be sad leaving a space they’ve used for nearly 12 years, but he hopes to buy a new church with nearly $55,000 he’s received from dozens of churches, groups and individuals nationwide.
White voted with a majority of delegates in favor of gay marriage at a national UCC conference.