GOOD NEWS: Filipino Bishop Responds to “Methodist Crossroads”

This reaction of Bishop Pete Torio to a statement made by Methodist Crossroads was distributed to the delegates of the Baguio Episcopal Area Church Workers’ Convocation. It is posted in the BEA Official Bulletin where Bishop Torio makes his official communication known to his Episcopal Area.

Bishop Pedro Torio, Jr. was elected bishop during the 2012 Philippines Central Conference and now leads the Baguio Episcopal Area in the northern Philippines. UMAction Director John Lomperis and IRD President Mark Tooley were among the original signers of the Methodist Crossroads “Integrity and Unity” statement.

First, I owe the United Methodist Church a lot because of my conversion experience—the Church became God’s instrument that led me to repentance and consequent decisions to believe and accept the Lord Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.

Second, I embraced the Biblical faith and discipline of the UMC through the mentoring, modelling, and ministry of my parents. My father—DS Rev. Pedro Torio—is a second-generation pastor.

Third, when I was ordained, I pledged to uphold the theology and discipline of the United Methodist Church. This was not a matter of convenience—it was a matter of conviction. My conviction includes my commitment to respect and defend provisions that forbid same-sex marriage within the UMC and related guidelines (Par. 2702, Par. 304.3).

Finally, I believe it is my duty to make my position known to the Baguio Episcopal Area of The United Methodist Church. Our clergy and laity need not guess on where I stand regarding these issues. It is my prayer that all eight (8) annual conferences of BEA will be with me on this. It is also our duty to initiate and sustain a truly Biblical pastoral-theological approach in reaching out to the whole UMC community especially in our local congregations, including those who do not agree with my official position. When complaints are officially submitted and dealt with according to our UMC due processes, please expect that I will act accordingly.

May God lead us in opening up responsible, relevant, reconciling discussions that are truly transforming and transcending, knowing that the unity and integrity of the UMC is much larger than divisive issues related to human sexuality. However, having said that, this does not mean that I take these issues for granted. Let us engage in such conversations as I visit the whole Episcopal Area.

Your fellow servant in Christ,

BISHOP PETE TORIO