Displaying items by tag: same sex blessings

The Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON) has called on Archbishop Justin Welby to publicly repent for endorsing same-sex blessings, claiming his stance contradicts the traditional 'doctrine of Christ’. In a recent podcast, Welby advocated for allowing same-sex couples in civil partnerships or marriages to receive blessings in church, stating that sexual activity should be confined to committed relationships, regardless of sexual orientation. GAFCON contends that this viewpoint alters the doctrine of sin and supports what they see as a sanctification of sin. Evangelical groups across the UK, including the Evangelical Council and Christian Concern, have also voiced disapproval, suggesting that Welby’s remarks represent a significant departure from Anglican orthodoxy. Some groups are forming alternative structures, like the Anglican Network in Europe, to support members who feel unable to remain in the CofE under these evolving doctrines.

A group of church leaders is taking a stand and threatening to split the Church of England over a vote on blessings for same-sex couples. Bishops have proposed trial standalone church services for gay and lesbian couples, pending a formal vote on making the change permanent. Over 25 church leaders have written to the Archbishops of York and Canterbury, warning that such a change could be 'unlawful' and claiming that the proposal departs from the Church’s doctrine. While priests can offer blessings within services, standalone services for same-sex blessings are not yet permitted, as some argue it equates to same-sex marriages. The General Synod will debate the issue next week. The Alliance, a conservative group supported by 2,000 clergy members, prepared the letter. It warns that further departure from the Church’s doctrine will force them to establish a new 'parallel province'.

78 ordinands and clergy in training within the Church of England sent a letter to the House of Bishops expressing concern over the potential introduction of same-sex blessing prayers and accompanying pastoral guidance, which they believe would depart from historic Christian teaching. This was before the bishops' recent decision to commend 'in principle' same-sex blessing prayers and announce that draft pastoral guidance will be presented to the General Synod next month. The ordinands and clergy fear that these developments will lead to fracturing within the Church of England and leave them feeling ‘vulnerable and concerned’. They requested that the prayers should not be implemented, arguing that previous decisions during the 'Living in Love and Faith' process have already reduced the number of ordinands and created uncertainty for those who adhere to orthodox beliefs within the church.