The Church of England could not agree on same-sex marriage
The Church of England has agreed to offer prayers and good wishes to same-sex couples, but has decided not to solemnize their marriage. All the elected bishops of London, clergy and other people associated with it also agreed with this decision
The Church of England decided on Thursday, February 9, to uphold the ban on same-sex marriage, but clergy are allowed to offer their prayers to same-sex married couples and cohabiting partners. May bestow good wishes.
The ‘General Synod’, made up of bishops, clergy and laity elected in London, is the church’s governing body, and a resolution for such a compromise was endorsed after a two-day meeting in London.
A statement issued after the meeting also apologized for not welcoming people from the LGBTQ community into the church.
Same-sex marriages were legalized in the UK in 2013, but the church has not changed its policy on the matter and after nearly half a decade of controversy, the Church of England has come to this conclusion.
Archbishop Justin Welby of Canterbury and Archbishop Stephen Cottrell of York said on the occasion, “The Church of England will now, for the first time publicly, without hesitation, happily welcome same-sex couples into churches.” ”
Anglican clergy are prohibited from marrying same-sex couples, so although the Synod has given them the right to offer prayers, good wishes and blessings to such couples, as priests they will not marry them.
Opponents of same-sex marriage face criticism
Progressive members of the church were pushing for more reforms and said the compromise plan did not go far enough, while conservative critics called the plan divisive and unpopular.
Two leading archbishops agreed that there are still “deep divisions” in the Church over LGBTQ community issues.
“I know that what we have proposed going forward is not enough for many, but too much for others,” Bishop of London Sarah Mullally said in a statement.
He added, “My prayer is that what has been agreed upon today will represent a step forward for all of us within the Church, including the LGBTQ community, as we all come together.” Determined to walk.”
But gay rights campaigner Synod member Jenny Ozane criticized the clergy offering only prayers and well-wishes, saying the decision was a reflection of how homosexuals would find their place within the church in the near future. Will not be able to marry.
“They can’t expect to get married in their church anytime soon, or that their desire for sexual intimacy is a sin,” he said. We are sending a message to the nation, which few will understand