Church in Wales to vote on same-sex blessings

 (Photo: Unsplash/Maico Pereira)

The Church in Wales' Governing Body is to consider allowing blessings for same-sex couples who are married or in civil partnerships.

The legislation does not propose allowing gay couples to marry in churches, only to receive a blessing.

"The service is for a blessing only as same-sex couples are unable to marry in church," the Church in Wales said.

The Bill proposes authorising a service of blessing on an experimental basis for five years.

Clergy will be free to decide whether or not they want to use it, the Church in Wales said.

An Explanatory Memoradum says, "Approval of this rite would be stating that the Church in Wales accepts that the loving and faithful commitment of two persons of the same sex, aspiring to life-long fidelity and mutual comfort, and who have made a commitment in civil partnership or marriage, is worthy of acceptance by the Church by asking God's blessing upon their commitment."

The legislation is to be considered at a meeting of the Governing Body being held on September 6.

It is taking place after Governing Body members previously suggested it would be "pastorally unsustainable" for the Church not to offer such a blessing.

A set of pastoral principles has been issued to guide members of the Church in Wales towards "thoughtful and considerate discussions" around what is a controversial topic.

The document states, "There can be no room for seeking to undermine sincerely held views. Neither should we seek to walk away from each other.

"Our union in Christ is at the heart of our life and the bonds and character of our baptism hold us together; sharing a commitment to each other as together we seek the Kingdom of God. We hope these materials will stimulate this quality of engagement."

News
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches

Every Christmas, people sing the song “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night”. Unlike many other songs and carols that include elements of non-biblical tradition and myth, this song is pure Scripture. It was the first Christmas song authorised to be sung in the Church of England. This is the story …

The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914
The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914

On Christmas Eve in 1914, many men were in the trenches fighting the war, but the spirit of Christmas halted the conflict for a brief period. This is the story …

Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land
Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land

Jerusalem Church leaders have released a report detailing the struggles and challenges currently faced be Christians living in the Holy Land.

Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?
Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?

For you who have been followers of Jesus Christ for a long time, maybe the pain and suffering of this world and the darkness you have had to live through this past year has gotten you down to the point of complete and utter discouragement. But all is not lost.