The role of gays and lesbians in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) faces a critical vote tonight — and the local outcome could have national implications.

        Madeira-Silverwood Presbyterian Church has asked the local governing body to issue an ultimatum to the leadership of Mount Auburn Presbyterian: Stop ordaining gays and lesbians as deacons and elders or leave the denomination.

        While Madeira-Silverwood leaders say they are concerned about the violation of church law, the Mount Auburn church says its disobedience is a matter of conscience.

        The vote by up to 240 representatives on the Presbytery of Cincinnati could serve as a national bellwether for Presbyterian churches as well as congregations of other faiths. From Reform Judaism to Catholicism and other Protestants, few issues stir passion in the pews like homosexuality and God's teachings on the subject.

        In the body of Christ, “if one part refuses to heal, the disease spreads,” said Robert Robinson, a member of Madeira-Silverwood. “So what do you do with it? You should remove it ... We really need to take a stand, a stand for God's word. This affects the health of our church denomination.”

        Julia Arostegy, clerk of session at Mount Auburn, acknowledges her congregation can't win the debate on church law alone.

        “We have to win people's hearts and minds. The reason we ordain gays and lesbians is because it's the right thing to do,” she said. “It's easy to get caught up in church law and forget that these are real people.”

        The Mount Auburn church began ordaining gays and lesbians in 1991. It says about two-fifths of its elders and deacons are homosexuals.

        Both sides have said they would appeal tonight's decision.

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