Posted 9 февраля 2023,, 14:40

Published 9 февраля 2023,, 14:40

Modified 9 февраля 2023,, 17:59

Updated 9 февраля 2023,, 17:59

Priests in England allowed to bless same-sex couples

Priests in England allowed to bless same-sex couples

9 февраля 2023, 14:40
The General Synod of the Church of England has allowed priests to bless same-sex couples who live in a civil marriage.

Members of the synod also apologized to the LGBT community for discrimination and the unavailability of repentance services and mourning for such people.

Earlier, the bishops proposed a compromise solution to the issues of blessing LGBT people in the church. English priests can bless such people at their discretion. They are not in danger of responsibility for refusing a blessing. 

It is noted that after two days of disputes, this proposal was supported by a majority of votes.

In addition, it is planned to develop a new pastoral guide for the Church on sexuality and marriage. New prayers for love and faith will be officially approved for use in churches.

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell commented that "the Anglican Church for the first time publicly, unconditionally and joyfully welcomes same-sex couples in the church". At the same time, there are still "disagreements in the church on issues affecting the essence of human identity".

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