Total Number of Pages: 2

Suggested Title: Pornography and Sexual Violence 

Resolution #2081: Pornography and Sexual Violence - Rewrite

General Church Budget Implications: None

Global Implications: Yes

“God created humanity in God’s own image, in the divine image God created them.” (Genesis  1:27a, CEB) 

The issue of pornography has dramatically impacted many both within and outside of the  worldwide church. Though graphic images have been available for centuries, the widespread  prevalence and availability of sexually explicit and aggressive materials today have led to an  increasing problem of addiction for many, including young people who have come of age with  the Internet in their homes and on their mobile devices. 

Studies have shown that pornography is progressively damaging in both the areas of belief and  behavior, as sex and intimacy have become synonymous with a specific kind of eroticism that  denies the essential image of God that is found in all. In addition, the majority of pornography is  linked to the oppression of women, especially those of color, distorting the sexual integrity of all  persons. Most disturbing is the growth of child pornography which has been shown to contribute  to the abuse of the most vulnerable among us. 

Thus, in accordance with our Social Principles, the United Methodist Church strongly opposes  pornography and laments its destructive impact upon both cultures and individuals. We call upon  all United Methodists to: 

1. Support actions to develop effective societal and governmental policies that eradicate child  pornography, adult exploitation, and enslavement;

2. Provide education materials that can help children and youths gain an appropriate and biblical  understanding of and respect for mutually affirming sexuality, as well as how to live both  faithfully and to view others through God’s eyes; 

3. Work to break the link between sex and violence by encouraging healthy human relationships; 

4. Enact strict policies that provide oversight of church-owned computers and sexual ethics  education and training for both clergy and laity; 

5. Provide resources and education for parents on how to minimize the risk to children from  unhealthy use of the internet; 

6. Offer non-judgmental support, rehabilitation and care to those who have been affected by  production, distribution, and view of pornography; 

7. Participate in ecumenical and community efforts to address the issue of pornography and its  harmful impact upon society. 

Date: August 26, 2019

The Rev. Susan Henry-Crowe

General Secretary

Bishop Sally Dyck

President of the Board

General Board of Church & Society

Phone: 202-488-5629

E-mail Address: gso@umcjustice.org