Former Baptist Bishop Becomes Pastor of 'Inclusive' Church after Marriage to Gay Partner

Allyson D. Nelson Abrams resigned as bishop of Zion Progress Baptist Church after marrying her gay partner; Abrams has now adopted a pastoral position at a new “inclusive” church in Maryland. 

The Empowerment Liberation Cathedral of Silver Spring, Maryland welcomes the LGBT community to join in worship; it is a part of the Metropolitan Community Church denomination. 

Abrams said that after she married resigned from serving in the Baptist church, people wrote to her in support of her decision. These supporter inspired her to form the LGBT-friendly church.

The homosexual pastor says that the Bible allows same-sex relationships according to Luke 7:1-10 and its reference to the love a man has for his servant. 

"I progressed in my theology and came to the point where I would love whichever came to me. I wasn't just open to (a specific) gender, I was open to love in whatever way the Lord would bless me,” Abrams said. "People have the right to interpret scripture whatever way they please. I respect difference of opinions.”

The Empowerment Liberation Cathedral holds its services at an Episcopal church with permission.

Publication date: July 7, 2014