Presbyterian Church (USA) Faces Internal Revolt Over Proposed Monogamy Rule for Clergy

The Presbyterian Church (USA) is facing growing internal backlash over a proposed rule that would require ordained clergy to be in monogamous sexual relationships. The measure, known as CON-10, is set for a vote during the denomination’s General Assembly this summer in Milwaukee. The proposal has sparked strong opposition from several official church committees and activist groups, who argue the policy unfairly targets polyamorous relationships and could harm LGBTQ members.

The Sierra Blanca Presbytery submitted the proposed rule, which states that pastors must “display moral character” and, “if engaged in any relationship of a sexual nature, living in a monogamous one.” While the proposal does not explicitly mention sexual orientation, supporters say it is intended to address polyamory and polygamy within church leadership. The measure argues that multipartner relationships can create “power imbalances, emotional harm, and spiritual confusion,” particularly affecting women, children, and historically marginalized people. It also calls on the denomination to develop pastoral resources for individuals leaving “polyamorous or polygamous situations.”

The PC(USA), which has steadily embraced progressive changes in recent years, first approved the ordination of openly gay clergy in 2011 and redefined marriage as being between “two people” in 2014. Now, however, the denomination appears sharply divided over whether monogamy itself should remain a standard for clergy.

Three official church advisory committees have publicly criticized the proposal. The Advocacy Committee for Women and Gender Justice argued that the measure attempts to “regulate the private lives and relational structures of individuals in ways that risk harm rather than healing.” The committee also warned that the requirement could “unintentionally reinforce systems of shame, silence, and spiritual coercion.”

Meanwhile, the Advocacy Committee on LGBTQIA+ Equity claimed the proposal reinforces “a narrow, culturally specific understanding of family” that privileges “a dominant cultural framework over the lived realities of communities of color and global Christians.” That committee also pointed to a 2024 academic study claiming that individuals in polyamorous relationships report levels of relationship satisfaction comparable to monogamous couples.

A third church panel, the Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy, opposed the measure and instead encouraged the denomination to pursue additional study on the issue. The committee emphasized the importance of listening to diverse experiences and ensuring that any policy reflects the broader values of justice, mercy, and humility. The debate highlights the tension between maintaining traditional standards and embracing a more inclusive understanding of relationships within the church.

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