Linthicum, USA - The United Methodist Church has reversed itself on the issue of a defrocked lesbian minister.
The church decided Friday to reinstate Beth Stroud. She was defrocked two years ago after revealing her relationship with another woman to her congregation, violating the church's ban on openly gay clergy.
The decision meant she could not serve communion or baptize anyone.
Stroud kept the title of associate minister and worked as a lay minister at the First United Methodist Church of Germantown in Philadelphia.
Now, a church panel has voted 8-1 to set aside the decision to defrock Stroud.
The minister said she is relieved by the ruling.