Rev John Dunnett Resigns Over Same-Sex Prayers at Chelmsford Cathedral

Resignation Follows Controversial Prayers at Chelmsford Cathedral

The ecclesiastical landscape of Chelmsford Cathedral has been shaken by the resignation of Rev John Dunnett from his honorary position. This decision came in the wake of the church’s adoption of ‘Prayers of Love and Faith’ for same-sex couples, a move that has sparked significant debate.

Rev Dunnett, who is also the national director of the Church of England Evangelical Council (CEEC) and the chair of the Chelmsford Diocesan Evangelical Network (CDEN), stepped down after he and others expressed their concerns in a letter addressed to the bishop and Cathedral dean. The letter, sent in late November, voiced “sadness and profound concern” regarding the prayers’ inclusion in services.

The prayers have their origins in the Church of England’s now concluded Living in Love and Faith initiative, which explored the Church’s stance on issues like homosexuality, gender, and marriage. These prayers, which aim to bless same-sex couples, have become a point of contention within the Church.

With over 150 clergy and lay officers signing the letter, it argued that the introduction of such prayers conflicted with traditional biblical and Anglican teachings on marriage and sexual ethics. The letter further articulated the sense of disenfranchisement felt by many within the Cathedral’s community.

Despite the backlash, the Cathedral’s Dean, the Very Rev Dr Jessica Martin, addressed the situation in late January. She asserted that the decision to include the Prayers of Love and Faith would stand firm, with no plans for reconsideration or reversal.

Explaining his decision to resign, Dunnett emphasized his continued dedication to the Church’s mission but highlighted a fundamental conflict of conscience. “I have not taken the decision to resign from being an Honorary Canon lightly or enthusiastically,” he stated, reflecting on the honor he has held.

Dunnett further expressed his concerns, saying, “The Dean and Chapter’s decision to use the Prayers of Love and Faith at Chelmsford Cathedral has alienated many of us who hold to the historic and biblical Anglican doctrine.” He also added, “We don’t consider that a commendation from the House of Bishops in this matter has any authority if it is at odds with Scripture.”