A Journey of Faith and Integrity: Tom Oord’s Heresy Trial

Tripp Fuller

On July 25th, Tom Oord faced a heresy trial in the Church of the Nazarene for his practice and advocacy of full LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church’s life. Listen in to hear an insightful episode as Tom Oord talks about his challenges with the Church of the Nazarene and his advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion. Oord shares his spiritual journey, professional sacrifices, and the personal impact of his stance on queer affirmation.

Religious freedom is an ideal held dear by many. Yet, even the most academically sound theological dissent can be met with extreme resistance within religious institutions, particularly those with deeply rooted doctrines. This was the case for Thomas J. Oord, a venerable theologian in the Nazarene Church, who found himself in the eye of a heresy trial. In the interview, Tom chronicles his journey to affirmation, the trial, and its aftermath. I thought it might be helpful to outline the big turns in text.

The Beginning of the Controversy – Early 1990s: The Nazarene Seminary Days

Tom Oord’s inclination towards a more inclusive theology began during his student days at Nazarene Theological Seminary in the early 1990s. Here, he first grappled with the “homosexuality question” and began studying relevant scriptures through the Wesleyan quadrilateral framework: scripture, Christian tradition, experience, and reason. As he delved deeper into the issue, Oord found traditional interpretations wanting and started leaning towards inclusivity.

Early Career and Struggles – The Initial Accusations

For years, Oord balanced his academic and ministerial obligations with his affirming views, often feeling constrained and wrestling with the complicity of silence. His ideological stance began attracting attention, and by late 2021, he encountered formal accusations from an ultra-conservative group in Indiana. The accusations centered around his supportive stance on LGBTQ+ issues within his denominational home, the Church of the Nazarene.

February 2022: Pre-trial Investigations

Oord’s integrity was tested during an investigative hearing in February 2022. Despite his bold affirmations of queer inclusivity during a meeting with elders and laity, the group commendably did not recommend disciplinary action. However, this proved to be only a temporary reprieve.

Escalating Tensions and Publishing Advocacy

The turning point in Oord’s saga was the collective effort to publish “Why the Church of the Nazarene Should Be Fully LGBTQ+ Affirming,” a book containing over 90 essays from scholars, queer individuals, and allies advocating for inclusivity. This publication created a significant stir in the denomination.

A Whirlwind of Events

Following the book’s release, Oord faced renewed disciplinary actions. By August 2023, formal charges were pressed against him, citing contrary teachings and conduct unbecoming of a minister.

The Heresy Trial – The Day of Reckoning

Oord’s trial took place on July 25, 2024, in Boise, Idaho. The trial was intense, marked by arguments from both Oord’s witnesses, who were notable theologians and queer advocates and the prosecution, prominently led by his district superintendent. Despite presenting a compelling defense centered on love and theological rigor, Oord was found guilty.

July 27, 2024: The Verdict

The verdict handed down not only defrocked Oord of his ministerial credentials but also excommunicated him from the Nazarene Church—a rare and severe punishment, especially over doctrinal disagreements.

Reflection and Future Directions

Emotionally and spiritually, the journey took a toll on Oord. He recounted dealing with stress, anxiety, and a sense of betrayal by the very institution he served faithfully. Breathing exercises, prayer, and community support were his mainstays. Despite this, the outpouring of support he received from allies and fellow believers was overwhelming and encouraging.

The Road Ahead

Oord remains committed to his advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusivity within and beyond the Nazarene Church. While he has no immediate plans to join another denomination, he continues to work in academia and remains an influential voice in open and relational theology. His story serves as a beacon for other reformers and a call to action for those within religious institutions grappling with issues of inclusivity and doctrine. Tom’s dedication to love and theological integrity continues to inspire many. As he and his supporters navigate these challenging times, their journey underscores the profound impact of striving for a more inclusive faith community. Their resilience is a testament to the enduring power of love, even in the face of institutional opposition.

Some Previous Tripp & Tom Pods

• Faith without Certainty
• Big God Questions
• Christ, Christmas, & the Incarnation
• the Death of Omnipotence!
• Brian McLaren & Thomas Jay Oord: a God Worthy of Love
• Process This!
• Process Theology QnA
• Authority, Atonement, Abortion, and a Big Hug
• from Pluriform Love to Divine Revelation
• Big God Twitter Takes
• Trump is (NOT) a Process Theologian & Other Questions
• Thomas Jay Oord wants you to know “God Can’t”
• Open and Relational Theology Throwdown
• Open and Relational Q&A with Thomas Jay Oord
• Why Go Wesleyan?

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