The Church of England continues to navigate its stance on same-sex blessings and marriages, as recent decisions from the House of Bishops indicate a cautious approach towards change. The bishops have decided against trialing standalone blessing services for same-sex couples and will maintain the ban on priests entering same-sex marriages for the time being.
In a meeting last week, the House of Bishops evaluated theological and legal guidance concerning the General Synod’s February 2023 vote that opened the door to same-sex blessings within regular church services, despite opposition from evangelical groups. The proposal for ‘bespoke’ blessing services and the legality of clergy entering same-sex marriages were central topics of discussion.
The legal analysis presented to the bishops clarified that standalone blessing services would need two-thirds majority approval across the three Synod houses in final deliberations. In contrast, allowing clergy to marry same-sex partners would require only simple majorities.
The bishops have preliminarily agreed that any changes, such as bespoke services and clergy same-sex marriages, must undergo formal synodical and legislative procedures. The Church of England emphasized the importance of unity and transparency in these deliberations, stating, “Although there remains a wide range of views within the House on questions of sexuality and relationships, there was strong consensus on the need for unity, transparency, and proper process alongside pastoral care.”
In December, the bishops are set to further investigate what formal legislative steps, like an amending canon and measure, would be necessary to allow clergy to enter into same-sex civil marriages. Until such processes are completed, existing guidelines will remain unchanged.
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, who chairs the Living in Love and Faith Programme Board, remarked, “As we continue prayerfully to navigate this important work on behalf of the Church, we believe these are the right decisions following further legal and theological advice. However, we recognise that for some, they will be difficult and disappointing. I continue to pray for God’s grace and gentleness for all as we continue to discern a way through these questions.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
