Church of England to debate blessings for same-sex couples after diocese motion

The Church of England is to debate holding blessings for same-sex couples for the first time.

It comes after a motion was put forward by the Diocese of Hereford proposing the introduction of services for couples after they have formed a civil partnership or married in a secular ceremony.

The motion for an “order of prayer and dedication” was passed by the diocesan synod, meaning the proposals will now go on to be discussed by the church’s overarching general synod.

The service is described as “neither contrary to nor a departure from” the doctrine of the church, and individual ministers or parishes could opt out of performing the blessing if they wished.

Bishop of Hereford, the Rt Revd Richard Frith, said the motion had been put forward following requests for a blessing from same-sex couples within the diocese.

He said: “Clergy are already encouraged to respond pastorally and sensitively when approached.

“The motion, which is part of a much wider debate, asks for guidance on materials to be used in affirming and praying with same-sex couples.”

Briefing papers published ahead of the diocesan synod vote acknowledged that their decision could be a “potentially controversial call”.

The report added: “Regardless of our decisions in the Synods of the Church of England, it is a reality that same-sex couples whose relationships are now recognised in law exist amongst our population, congregations, and clergy, and the problem of whether, or how, such relationships are treated will be a continuing issue for us to face.

“The motion offers one possible response to this dilemma.”

Progressive OneBodyOneFaith group, which campaigns for LGBT integration with the church, said it was delighted with the news.

A spokesman said: “Support for such a motion in a predominantly rural diocese like Hereford reflects what many of our members and supporters know to be true – that in communities across the country, in all kinds of contexts, there is widespread support for affirming same-sex couples, and being alongside them as they experience the joy and blessing of their relationships.”

But not everyone was backing the move.

Suzie Leafe, the director of the conservative evangelical group Reform, told the BBC: “Marriage (is) a lifelong relationship between a man and a woman, and this has been, and still, is the understanding of the vast majority of the worldwide church for two millennia.

“To ask for a service of prayer and dedication for a same-sex relationship represents a fundamental departure from this teaching,”

Same-sex marriages in Anglican churches are banned in England and Wales, but began in Scotland this year.