Changes

In terms of politics, the clergy are liberal Democrats. Although they supported Al Gore over George Bush by 67%-26% in 2000, with 5% for Ralph Nader, 80% avoid political sermons or taking public stands on political issues.<ref>Hofrenning et al (2004)</ref>

In terms of politics, the clergy are liberal Democrats. Although they supported Al Gore over George Bush by 67%-26% in 2000, with 5% for Ralph Nader, 80% avoid political sermons or taking public stands on political issues.<ref>Hofrenning et al (2004)</ref>

==Controversies==

==Homosexual pastors==

Though aware that some same-sex couples receive blessings from pastors and that some openly gay or lesbian pastors are ordained, delegates to the biennial assembly of the ELCA in 2005 declined to authorize either practice, even on a provisional basis. The vote to allow gay and lesbian pastors fell far short of the two-thirds majority required for a policy change—490 yes votes to 503 no votes.<ref>John Dart, "ELCA Says No to Gay Pastors, Blessings." [http://www.questia.com/read/5011048993?title=ELCA%20Says%20No%20to%20Gay%20Pastors%2c%20Blessings ''The Christian Century'' September 6, 2005 online]</ref> In 2007 the Churchwide Assembly voted not to overturn the denomination's rules that bar the ordination of noncelibate homosexual clergy.  

In 2005, the ELCA voted against allowing homosexual pastors or allowing same-sex couples to receive blessings from pastors. The vote was almost equal, though far short of a two-thirds majority required.<ref>John Dart, "ELCA Says No to Gay Pastors, Blessings." [http://www.questia.com/read/5011048993?title=ELCA%20Says%20No%20to%20Gay%20Pastors%2c%20Blessings ''The Christian Century'' September 6, 2005 online]</ref> In 2007, the ELCA's assembly again voted against allowing celibate homosexual pastors.

 

==Further reading==

==Further reading==