LGBTI groups urge the Church of England to ‘follow the Methodist’s lead’ on same-sex marriage

All the major LGBTI organisations in the Church of England have welcomed the Methodist Church’s move towards same-sex marriage, following a motion at The Methodist Conference earlier this month, which saw a 247 to 48 vote in favour of allowing same-sex weddings to take place in Methodist Churches and to be conducted by Methodist ministers.

The Campaign for Equal Marriage in the Church of England, Inclusive Church, OneBodyOneFaith, the LGBTI Mission, Ekklesia, Accepting Evangelicals and others have written a letter calling on the Church of England to make a similar move of acceptance.

The letter said: “The Campaign for Equal Marriage in the Church of England has made very similar proposals to those being discussed in the Methodist Church, proposals that respect the conscience of everyone and understand that it is possible to be faithful and committed members of our Church whilst holding differing views on marriage.

“It is time that the Church of England made a similar move and began to be honest about the reality that a great many of our Church communities would rejoice in the opportunity to welcome gay and lesbian couples to make their marriage vows in our parish Churches.

“It is time for change in the Church of England, for an honest acceptance of the differences within us on this issue, just as we do on divorce and the ordination of women.”

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