Same-sex marriages are still a debatable topic behind closed church doors. Despite the official legislation permitting same-sex marriage in England and Wales over 10 years ago, this might now be the very thing that could split the church of England. Here’re the developments.
The Church of England Says No
Even though the legalisation of same-sex marriages was officially introduced in England and Wales, it is still an issue for England’s churches to marry same-sex couples.
Present Practice of Same-Sex Marriage
It’s been nearly over a decade, and still, the church of England won’t allow couples of the same sex to marry inside the building. Instead, couples must have a private ceremony or a civil union that does not require the use of the church building.
Fighting for Same-Sex Marriages in the Church
Civil partners Reverend Marion Clutterbuck and her partner Jay Green are not only devoted to their love for each other but also to the church and the community. Marion was one of the first women ordained in the 1990s. She is one of many who disputes the laws prohibiting same-sex weddings in the church building.
Together for 23 Years and Going Strong
Marrion, 66, and Jay, 69, have been civil partners for 23 years. Yet, they have never had the church’s blessing to be wedded and say their vows in church. The couple is fighting for themselves and others who are dealing with the same form of discrimination from the church.
It’s Taken Six Years and Slowly Improving
Six years into almost a decade of legalisation, and only now are signs of progression. According to CNN, the church voted to move ahead with church blessings for same-sex couples after their official civil union was completed elsewhere.
Not Equal to a Church Wedding
Reports also said that while a civil wedding outside the church was not the same as a church wedding and vows, many are positive that it’s a step in the right direction. The progression might be slow, but it’s getting closer to “full marriage equality.”
Voting for Same-Sex Marriages in Church
Sky News reported the General Synod voted for marriages of the same sex in the church, and the feelings were already split then. However, the votes in February supported marriage outside the church and a blessing inside the church.
Archbishops Respond After Votes Were In
Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Cantebury, and the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell commented that it was the first time for the Church of England to accept same-sex couples. In a statement, they said, the Church of England welcomes same-sex partners “publicly, unreservedly, and joyfully’…”
Commitment From the Church
The archbishops have also stated that they are “…committed to respecting the conscience of members ‘for whom this goes too far’…and ensure that they all have reassurances they need in order to maintain the unity of the church…”
Love for Each Other
The Archbishops further stated that the congregation must continue to pray for each other. They also noted above all things that there be love within the church and for one another.
Disputing Men and Women of the Cloth
This topic has become highly debated because Marion and some other church leaders are for same-sex marriages blessed in the church. Meanwhile, the other half of the Church of England refuses to agree.
“Too Far for Some and Not Far Enough for Others”
Bishop Sarah Mullally led the debate that commenced before the votes were cast. She said that she knows that the proposed way forward is “not nearly far enough,” for many, and for some, it goes too far.
Prayers for All to Be Welcomed in the Church
Bishop Mullally also said that she would pray that this decision would be seen as a way forward for all, including LGBTQ+ members. That everyone will be welcomed in the church of England.
Everyone, but Not Everyone
The ordained clergy, John Dunnett, is from the opposing side of the church’s votes for same-sex marriage in the church. According to Sky News, Reverend Dunnet said that the church could be dealt “a mortal blow if the bishops continue their pursuit.”
Gay, but No Agreement for Same-Sex Marriage
The Vicar of St Ebbs in Oxford, Reverend Vaghn Roberts, does not describe himself as gay, but he has confirmed his attraction to the same sex. He also opposes same-sex marriage in the church. However, he is pro the church blessing the couple’s union after their marriage outside.
Come out for Love
Danish-British writer Sandi Toksvig appealed to archbishop Welby to “come out for love.” She asked that he come out for love for all without exceptions and not behind the guise that everyone is equal, while some are still “more equal than others.”
Directed to the Church of England
Toksvig said she would reach out to the wider LGBTQ+ community and allies to see what could be done. Toksvig concluded her statement by saying, “Please, let’s all come out for love.”
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