Protesters Arrested at Methodist Meeting

Nearly 200 gay-rights demonstrators were arrested outside a United Methodist gathering in Cleveland on the eve of a vote during which the church leadership is expected to reaffirm its stand against homosexuality. The protesters briefly interrupted an ecumenical service led by Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey, leader of the world’s 70 million Anglicans. Carey’s sermon made only passing reference to “issues to do with personal freedom and its limits,” such as homosexuality and abortion. The demonstrators were jailed for a few hours, then charged with persistent disorderly conduct. Under a deal with prosecutors, most pleaded no contest, were found guilty and fined $100 plus court costs.