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The Church of England announced on Wednesday that it would apologize for its treatment of the LGBTQ community, but would not allow its clergy to officiate same-sex marriages.Photo courtesy of eXpose/Shutterstock.com
January 18 (United Press International) — The Church of England announced on Wednesday that it would apologize to the LGBTQ+ community for its treatment of them, but would not allow clergy to officiate same-sex marriages.
in a Press release from the church it says will not change It is “The Teachings of the Sacred Marriage of Same-Sex Couples”. Instead, it will create guidelines for blessing same-sex marriage through rituals, which are optional for the clergy.
The Church of England says it has discussed its same-sex marriage policy and approach over the past six years, including in Lambeth Conference Last August.
In his speech to the conference, Archbishop Justin Welby said the issue of same-sex marriage was a “divisive” and “controversial” issue.
“They will urge all congregations under their care to welcome same-sex couples ‘without reservation and joy’ as they reaffirm their commitment to ‘a radical new Christian inclusion grounded in Scripture, reason, tradition, theology and Christian faith’ in the Church of England Embrace it — based on good, healthy, prosperous relationships, and a sound understanding of human beings and sexuality in the 21st century,” the church said.
The proposal still has to be passed at a general meeting in London in February. It will be submitted to the governing body in a report.
If the proposal is adopted in full, clergy would receive a “prayer of love and faith” that could be used in ceremonies celebrating same-sex marriage.
“Whether personally or on behalf of my fellow bishops, I would like to express our deep sorrow and grief [lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and questioning] People and their loved ones are treated by the Church, which above all should recognize that every human being is precious and created in God’s image,” said Sarah Mulally, Bishop of London.
“We are deeply sorry and ashamed and want to take this opportunity to start over in the spirit of repentance that our faith has taught us,” Mulally said.
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