Church of England Synod supports ‘Anglican way forward’ on same-sex relationships
[The Church of England] The Church of England’s General Synod has given agreement in principle to taking forward outline proposals for the wider use of prayers asking for God’s blessing for same-sex couples in church services.
A selection of readings and prayers of thanksgiving, dedication and asking for God’s blessing for same-sex couples – known as Prayers of Love and Faith, are already in use as part of regular services in some churches such as a Sunday eucharist or evensong.
The package of proposals includes possible arrangements for the use of the Prayers of Love and Faith in special – or standalone – services alongside delegated episcopal ministry, and work to provide a timetable towards a decision on clergy in same-sex civil marriages.
Speaking in the debate, the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, acknowledged there are deep disagreements within the church on questions of sexuality and that the proposals would not fully satisfy any group – but represented an “Anglican way forward.”
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