Archbishop Acknowledges Disappointment on Standalone Same-Sex Blessings Decision

Archbishop acknowledges disappointment on standalone same-sex blessings decision

In December 2023 the first same-sex partnerships received blessings as part of wider services. A leading bishop has described a decision that standalone services for same-sex blessings in the Church of England would need a two-thirds majority at General Synod as “difficult and disappointing” for some. Divisions on issues of sexuality have been long-running in the Church and the latest development has also seen the House of Bishops state that leg…

Permission for clergy to enter same-sex marriages must be approved by a supermajority of synod, say CoE bishops

The House of Bishops has made a series of key decisions on the future direction of the Church of England’s Living in Love and Faith process, which explores questions of relationships, sexuality and marriage. Final decisions will be taken in December. At its residential meeting last week, the House reviewed detailed theological and legal advice on outstanding questions following the landmark 2023 Synod vote which led to the introduction of the Pr…

Further synodical approval is needed for same-sex blessings, House of Bishops says

APPROVAL for stand-alone services of blessing for same-sex couples and the reconsideration of rules that bar the clergy from entering into same-sex marriage will be subject to further synodical processes, the House of Bishops has decided. The Hous...