SEATTLE (AP) -- A formal complaint was filed against an openly gay pastor at a Methodist church, the first step toward his possible removal, his congregation said.
The complaint was initiated by Bishop Elias Galvan of Seattle at the direction of a denomination court.
The Rev. Mark Edward Williams of Woodland Park United Methodist Church disclosed his sexual orientation in June.
The United Methodist Church bars the appointment of openly gay clergy, but Williams' parishioners have fought to keep him. Leaders of the 168-member congregation said they learned of the complaint Sunday.
``I was expecting it for many months, but at the same time it sort of felt like being hit in the stomach when it actually happened,'' Williams said.
The bishop and an investigation committee will determine whether there are grounds for a church trial, which could bring suspension or expulsion.