The Presbyterian Church (USA) is considering a proposal, known as CON-10, that would mandate ordained clergy to adhere to monogamous relationships. This proposal, slated for discussion at the General Assembly this summer, has sparked significant online reactions but has not yet gained widespread support within the denomination.
Another proposal aims to initiate theological studies on topics such as gender and sexuality, life-giving relationships, and the Christian perspective on family. These discussions highlight the increasing visibility of polyamory in society and its potential impact on policies, particularly within theologically progressive Christian communities.
Rev. Claudia Aguilar Rubalcava, affiliated with More Light Presbyterians, an organization supporting LGBTQ inclusivity, believes that polyamory will soon become a key topic of discussion among mainline denominations.
“I think it is the next big conversation that most mainline denominations will have,” Rubalcava said.
More Light Presbyterians has expressed concern, stating that the monogamy proposal seems to target queer communities. They argue that the proposal imposes a single relationship model as the sole faithful expression of Christian life, without considering the diverse experiences of many faithful individuals. The organization emphasizes that while Scripture addresses themes like covenant, mutuality, justice, and love, it does not advocate for one specific relational structure universally.
Currently, the PCUSA’s governing documents do not explicitly mention polyamory. The 2011 amendment of their Book of Order removed any requirement for ordained clergy to live in “fidelity within the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman, or chastity in singleness,” allowing LGBTQ individuals to pursue ordination. The Book of Order presently defines marriage as a “unique commitment between two people.”
Advocates of CON-10 assert that polyamory or polygamy could result in power imbalances and emotional harm, particularly affecting women, children, and marginalized groups. For CON-10 to pass, delegates at the General Assembly must approve it, followed by ratification from over half of the 160 regional presbyteries. However, the proposal has only been endorsed by the Presbytery of Sierra Blanca in New Mexico, and several advisory committees have recommended voting against it.
Another proposal, titled “Beyond Changing Families: Flourishing Relationships and Belonging,” has been recommended for approval by three committees and seeks to develop a theological framework around relational ethics.
Kate Davoli, a ruling elder and board co-moderator for More Light Presbyterians, noted ongoing discussions within the PCUSA about responsibly ministering to polyamorous congregants. A national Kinsey Institute study in 2021 indicated that approximately 1 in 9 single adults have experienced polyamorous relationships.
Other denominations are also examining their positions on polyamory. The Episcopal Church has faced internal conflicts over diverse family structures, while the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada supports conversations about ethical non-monogamous relationships.
Matthew Vines, an advocate for LGBTQ Christians and founder of The Reformation Project, argues that the PCUSA proposal is not a clear indication of support for nonmonogamy. Vines, who identifies as theologically conservative, promotes monogamous, covenantal relationships within the church, viewing them as reflective of monotheism and stabilizing forces.
Proponents of polyamory highlight biblical examples of different relationship models and stress the importance of consensual, safe relationships. More Light Presbyterians recently hosted a “Faithful Polyamory 101” training to explore such dynamics.
The General Assembly will address the proposals on monogamy and relationship studies by the end of its meeting on July 2. The Presbyterian Church (USA)’s discussion contributes to the broader conversation on the role of non-monogamous relationships in faith communities.