missed by the Presbytery of Boston's Permanent Judicial Commission (PJC). Charges were
Massachusetts.
Rev. Janet Edwards, Co-Moderator, More Light Presbyterians, said, "I give thanks for the faith-
ful pastoral ministry of Rev. Jean Southard and the decision today recognizes and respects
those pastoral responsibilities. This PJC decision encourages all of us to continue the dialogue
about the meaning of marriage for both church and state."
Rev. Jean Southard most recently served as pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Waltham,
MA, a welcoming and affirming More Light Church. "I had the privilege and joy of visiting Jean
in Waltham and observing her faithful and loving pastoral leadership and service in person,"
reflected Michael J. Adee, Executive Director & Field Organizer of More Light Presbyterians.
"Jean is one of the most loving and thoughtful pastors I have ever met. I give thanks to God today that the PJC dismissed
the charges against Jean. Her stalwart commitments to peacemaking, justice and equality in addition to her pastoral heart
characterize her life and ministry. Jean is a blessing to everyone fortunate enough to know her."
The decision by the Boston Presbytery's PJC provides direction and reflection on the matter of mar-
riage equality, particularly due to its location in a state where same-sex marriage is legal. More Light
Presbyterians is passionately and absolutely committed to spiritual equality, ordination equality and
marriage equality. Learn more at www.mlp.org.