BUGB Trustee Statement about The Open Baptist Network

The Trustees of the Baptist Union of Great Britain are aware of the formation of the Open Baptist Network, and the concerns among some that led to its development.
 
We note that the Open Baptist Network is an independent body, and that its stated intention is not to step away from the wider Baptist family. Nevertheless, the Trustees maintain the decision of Baptist Union Council in March 2024 to retain the current Ministerial Recognition Rules regarding marriage and ministry.

These rules state that “ministers in same‑sex marriages cannot hold accreditation” while also affirming that “sexual orientation is not, in itself, a bar to accreditation”. Council also upheld the liberty of the local church to appoint ministry according to their governing documents. Given the diversity of conviction expressed during the consultation, Council called for ongoing pastoral sensitivity as the Baptist family continues to discern the way of Christ together.

Council’s decision was reached following a wide consultation across Baptist Together.
 
The Trustees recognise the deep feelings involved and the pain carried by many across our Baptist family, both during and since the consultation.
 
We also recognise that Council’s decision has led some accredited ministers to wonder how they may navigate the implications for their calling and ministry.
 
In the light of all the above, as Trustees we reaffirm our commitment to:

• upholding the Ministerial Recognition Rules that understand marriage to be between a man and a woman;
• supporting all our accredited and recognised ministers, including those who hold differing convictions, as together we seek to live under the authority of Scripture and the lordship of Christ;
• maintaining the unity of our Baptist family, grounded in the Declaration of Principle;
• listening carefully and prayerfully to the lived experiences of accredited and recognised ministers across our Union; and
• continuing to work with and be thankful for unaccredited ministers, as is already our practice. 

We remain committed to fostering a culture shaped by grace, truth and mutual respect as we continue to discern how best to support the life and ministry of our ministers and churches in these complex and sensitive matters.

Lynn Green and Peter King
On behalf of the Baptist Union of Great Britain Trustee Board