Church Discipline
The Presbytery of the Redwoods in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in December filed a disciplinary charge against Jane Adams Spahr, who participated in a same-sex marriage ceremony. Jim Berkley of Presbyterians for Renewal brought the charges, saying Spahr violated the denomination's Book of Order. o United Methodist minister Beth Stroud lost her ministerial credentials in December. A church jury found her guilty of "practices incompatible with Christian teaching." Stroud openly practices lesbianism, in violation of church law.

Court Okays Gay Marriage
Canada's Supreme Court, in a long-expected decision, says marriage between homosexuals is constitutional. The advisory opinion, called a reference, was announced December 9. Now the issue shifts back to the House of Commons, to see whether gay marriage will become legal at the federal level. The justice minister says legislation will be introduced as soon as members return to work at the end of January. It could pass in a matter of months.