July 15th, 2009
The Episcopal Church has taken a step forward in recognizing same-sex marriages. By a vote of 104 to 30, the House of Bishops has just voted begin the “consideration of theological resources and liturgies for the blessing of same gender relationships” and to “collect and develop theological resources and design liturgies, and report to the 77th General Convention for further action.”
Wording:
Resolved, the House of Deputies concurring, that the 76th General Convention acknowledge the changing circumstances in the United States and in other nations, as legislation authorizing or forbidding marriage, civil unions or domestic partnerships for gay and lesbian persons is passed in various civil jurisdictions that call for a renewed pastoral response from this Church and for an open procession for the consideration of theologicalresources and liturgies liturgical resources for the blessing of same gender relationships; and be it further
Resolved, That the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music, in consultation with the House of Bishops, collect and develop theological and liturgical resources and design liturgies, and report to the 77th General Conventionfor further action consideration; and be it further
Resolved, That the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music, in consultation with the House of Bishops, devise an open process for the conduct of its work inviting participation from provinces, dioceses, congregations, and individuals who are engaged in such theological work, and inviting theological reflection from throughout the Anglican Communion; and be it further
Resolved that bishops, particularly those in dioceses within civil jurisdictions where same gender marriage civil unions or domestic partnerships are legal, may provide generous pastoral response to meet the needs of members of this church, and be it further
Resolved that this convention continue to honor the theological diversity of this Church in regard to matters of human sexuality; and be it further
Resolved that the members of this church be encouraged to engage in this effort
The House of Delagates will likely confirm the resolution. And the Episcopal Church will begin the process of determining precisely what liturgy will be used to bless same-sex unions. Further, it appears to me that the Church may have given permission to Bishops in marraige or domestic partner states to generously accomodate recognition and provide some blessing of such unions.
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Richard W. Fitch
July 15th, 2009
Just be aware that this is finally a province-wide implementation of what has been observed in many dioceses through out EC_USA for about 10 yrs. Many bishops have either approved or not prohibited commitment ceremonies in parishes under their care. But now we have the General Convention at the threshold of endorsing these types of blessings in every diocese, still at the discernment of the bishop. No one will be coerced to officiate, but at the same time it will mean no one need turn a blind eye.
Lindoro Almaviva
July 15th, 2009
If the first resolution was the gasoline, this is the match that will set a fire the size of the Amazonian jungle.
BradP
July 16th, 2009
Why can’t they just use the same liturgy (with necessary tweaks) as they would use for a normal blessing?
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