SEATTLE--The verdict to acquit a lesbian minister of violating Methodist law by engaging in a homosexual relationship has outraged traditionalists and elated reformers, according to The New York Times.

A jury of 13 Methodist clergy members found the Rev. Karen T. Dammann had not violated church law in her lesbian relationship. The verdict is sure to impact next month's quadrennial conference of the United Methodist Church in Pittsburgh.

William B. Lawrence, dean of the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, said both traditionalists and reformers will push for clarification of the church's stance on gays in ministry.

Lawrence said he hoped the church would, "find a way to handle this difficult and complex set of issues without feeling the need to fracture or enter into some sort of schism. But that remains to be seen."

Dammann said she realized the impact the verdict could have on the Methodist church. "For the church it means a beginning of another stage of struggles, and I'm mindful of that," she said. "This is going to be painful."

The trial focused on prohibitions of homosexuality as well as a philosophy of inclusiveness within the church law. The jury concluded that while the church said homosexuality was "incompatible with Christian teaching" it offered no clear declaration on whether gay men or lesbians could join the clergy.

The upcoming conference will offer church leaders the opportunity to clarify the issue.

Bishop Elias Galvan of Seattle, wrote a letter to churches in reaction to the verdict. "This decision will not resolve the conflict within the United Methodist Church," Galvan wrote. "As long as this issue is important to society, the church must continue to reflect theologically and biblically and lead in ministries of justice and peace."