Back in March, a jury of 13 pastors acquitted Reverend Karen Dammann, the openly gay pastor had been charged with practices "incompatible with Christian teachings."

When her church trial ended, Dammann thought her troubles had too.

She was wrong.

Methodists from across the country are meeting in Pittsburgh this week at the denomination's General Conference, and they've ordered their top court to review Reverend Dammann's case.

That, after the Methodist Judicial Council ruled that "homosexuality clearly violates Methodist law," and that such a violation "could be cause for removal from church office."

Dammann's verdict, once thought to be irrevocable, may now be in the hands of the Methodist high court.

Reached at her home in Ellensburg where she is still on family leave, Dammann said "This thing just never ends. I'm disappointed. I can't believe it."

The debate over homosexuality is expected to dominate the agenda at this week's General Conference.

And while no one expects the debate to cause the 8.3 million member denomination to break apart, many ministers are keenly aware of the sensitivity and volatility of this issue.

"Right now we are trying to help follow the leading of the holy spirit," said Reverend Karen Oliveto, "keep the church a relevant institution that can provide God's love and justice in the world."

It's still unclear what, if any, action the high court can take.

But, a ruling is expected sometime this week.