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DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. (AP) - A Presbyterian congregation has ordained a gay man who refuses to embrace celibacy despite the denomination's ban on sexually active homosexuals joining the clergy.
A complaint over the action is likely to be filed with a regional panel in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), which is among several Protestant denominations embroiled in a bitter debate over what role gays should have in their churches.
Raymond Bagnuolo was ordained Sunday at South Presbyterian Church in Dobbs Ferry. During the ceremony, when asked if he would abide by the church's constitution, Bagnuolo said yes, except for a measure that says ministers must practice fidelity if married and chastity if single.
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