CofE same-sex blessing proposals are 'unsustainable', says evangelical leader

 (Photo: Unsplash)

The head of the Evangelical Alliance UK has appealed to the Church of England to reaffirm its historic commitment to heterosexual marriage.

In an open letter published in Christianity magazine, Gavin Calver said that he was "saddened, pained and a little shocked" by the proposals unveiled last week and that the proposals are an "unsustainable way forward".

"After a long process of listening and discussion, proposals are being brought to General Synod that, while claiming not to change their doctrine of marriage, do appear to dramatically compromise the church's teaching and practice on relationships and sexual ethics," he wrote.

The Church of England said last week that same-sex couples will not be allowed to marry in CofE churches but will be able to have a service of blessing.

The Prayers in Love and Faith unveiled by the CofE last week include prayers for thanksgiving, dedication and God's guidance.

They will be debated by the Church of England's parliamentary body, the General Synod, next month. 

The open letter has been published after meetings between Calver, the Church of England Evangelical Council and Lambeth Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

In his letter, Calver further warned that the ramifications of introducing blessings for same-sex couples will be felt far beyond the Church of England.

He is asking evangelicals to pray ahead of next month's Synod debate. 

"As we have listened, it has been abundantly clear that there is a wide range of views and opinions held and that navigating a way forward is fraught with challenges," he wrote.

"This is not an easy conversation, there is real pain and hurt to be acknowledged and repented of. But, it is also profoundly clear that the attempted compromise being suggested is entirely inadequate for all sides of the debate.

"The proposals being suggested are an unsustainable way forward."

News
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'

Reform MP Danny Kruger has spoken of the need for Britain to once more assert itself as a  country with a long and rich Christian Heritage.

400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions
400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions

Sex selective abortions appear to be taking place within the Indian community, data suggests.

Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity
Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity

Community pantries across the UK have recorded their one millionth visit, as new research suggests the membership-based food model is helping thousands of households reduce food insecurity, cut costs and prevent them from falling into extreme hardship.

Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India
Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India

India has witnessed a blend of joyful Christmas celebrations in many parts of the country, alongside reports of hate, hostility, and attacks on Christians this season, particularly in northern and central regions.