Pictured: Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally addresses Synod. Credit: PA Media
Gafcon Australia welcomes the recent decision of the Church of England’s General Synod not to proceed with formal blessing ceremonies for same-sex couples in churches, as reported here:
However, the need for reform remains as urgent as ever. This decision does not reflect any repentance or change of mind by the leadership of the English church. In fact:
- Prayers to bless same-sex couples for use in the context of a regular service are still commended (what is currently not allowed is a ceremony that would look too much like a marriage service).
- There are a number of clergy in civil same-sex marriages who have been allowed to continue serving without disciplinary action.
- The synod has set up two other groups to help the church work towards full acceptance of same-sex relationships.
- Both the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, and the new Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, have spoken positively about working towards recognition and endorsement of same-sex relationships.
- The bishops have apologised, not for the direction in which LLF was heading, but for the pain caused by putting a (temporary) halt to progress in affirming LGBTI+ relationships.
Please pray for all those in the Church of England who continue to courageously and graciously speak up for biblical commands; and pray that next month’s G26 GAFCON gathering in Nigeria will result in wise, humble and courageous decisions about the best way to reset the Anglican Communion on the foundation of God’s Word.
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