In fact this split within and among the various religious denominations is similar to the ones that characterize the country on political matters that have little or nothing to do with sex or traditional religious issues. Homosexuality is condemned categorically by evangelical and fundamentalist Christians, who cite passages in the books of Leviticus and Romans. But in mainline denominations, positions are not so clearly drawn. The role of women in church leadership is equally contentious. Although no one can say for certain whether these differences will split denominations, recent events suggest they might.
Experts caution that walkouts depend on each denomination's theological center of gravity.
Votes and actions by mainline denominations have run against blessing same-sex unions and ordaining gay clergy, but divided on the issue of women's roles. The gay issue is the real third rail out there. That's what's sending the sparks flying. Despite the intensity of the debate, most of the splits have so far taken place along the edges of the denominations. I think those positions will hold, but there will be significant tensions.