Urge the Sub-Executive of United Church, Toronto Conference to reject the recommendations of the Conference Interview Committee Re: Gretta Vosper

Gretta's dialogue with church is very encouraging to progressive people of faith. So much of traditional church is based on creed and theology which is man-made. asking us to make statements with our fingers crossed when we cannot give assent. Because Gretta rejects many of our theistic statements, she is a challenge to clean up our language and our thinking. We need a church appointed committee to review our statements of faith and our ordination vows

I believe in a church that accepts many theological views, including Vosper's. I do not believe in a church that suppresses differences.

I've met Gretta and heard her speak. She is awesome - very wise and knowledgeable, and the type of minister I would want to have. Actually, I would start attending church again with a minister of her beliefs and caliber. Times are changing and the human species is growing up and moving beyond the old myths and "answers" given by traditional religion. If the United Church is to survive I believe we need more Gretta Vospers. Thanks for the opportunity to sign this petition and express my views.

This is wrong, and this judgement lacked any form of honesty. Gretta is highly effective, to those who matter, her congregation.

You need a bigger tent.

I am totally in support of Gretta. We need more voices like hers. She may not use the word God, but her ministry certainly reflects the mysterious Presence, some of us call God. When did our church become so judgmental? I am 85 years oild - graduated in theology in 1957. My thinking has changed and evolved over the years and continues to do so. Gretta and others like her have encouraged us to think outside the box - "to colour outside the lines."

You have been an inspiration to me to think freely. Now I'm not sure what I am safe to say/think. It appears a line is being drawn in the theological sand. How much time and energy do I spend trying to find the line? How much can I afford to risk crossing the line? This is sad news.

Don't strain at this gnat Of reason while swallowing The whole camel of dogma!

She is a true visionary & should be celebrated, not dismissed.

Our world, and our church, needs visionary leaders who help us to live full and ethical lives. I encourage the leaders of The United Church of Canada to recognize the important spiritual guidance and enlightenment Gretta provides to her devout congregation. Spirituality is ultimately understood by mortals within the context of our current day and time. Gretta Vosper provides introspection which REQUIRES careful and honest reflection, which is of utmost importance in our day and our time. Gretta Vosper is a messenger who is a passionate advocate for thoughtfulness and pure ethical living. Keep Gretta as part of our church.

Gretta is a necessary voice. I urge you to listen to her congregation.

As a person involved in the United Church of Canada my whole life, this causes me to have grave concerns about the leadership of my church and whether it might be time for me to give up, and close the door on this relationship , and to seek spiritual fulfilment elsewhere.

I have benifited greatly from the Sunday services. The community that has been hugely influenced by Greta is something rarely seen. Her generosity, her work with the congregation, her directions and support have demonstrated to me her effectiveness and commitment to West Hill United and the United Church at large.

I am supportive of Greta and her United Church Congregation.

Such theological innovation is needed

As someone who has experienced major shifts in theology over the years, and purposefully chose the United Church later in life so I could feel authentic on my journey of "living into mystery", and still be able to feel I belong, I am saddened and disheartened by the possibility that Gretta Vosper is being denied her place as an ordained minister of the United Church. If there is no room for her beautiful spirit and questioning mind then how can there be room for someone like me. I sincerely urge the sub-executive of United Church, Toronto conference to find a way to reject the recommendations of the Conference Interview Committee.

Although I don't personally agree with all of Gretta's theological viewpoints, this whole process has been shockingly wrong. Please reconsider this decision.

I support Gretta!!!

She has made a lot of people THINK instead of just "showing up"!

The United Church has always supported conservative to progressive views. That is what has kept me part of this faith community. Let Greta Vosper be included with her views or I will rethink staying myself.