The decision by the Church of England general synod in York, to move towards allowing services for same-sex blessings, has once more revealed deep divisions, hurt, anger and anxieties. Speakers in this Religion Media Centre briefing discussed what possible moves could come next to keep the church together, where both sides are certain they are right.
With the conservative evangelical wing planning to appoint “overseers”, who will take over the role of bishops in pastoral oversight of people on their side of the divide, the panel discussed whether this was in fact legal. And there was an appeal for the whole church to take lessons from local parishes which stay together amicably despite differences on this issue.
Tim Wyatt hosted with the panel:
- Peter Collier KC, retired judge and vicar general of the province of York
- Dr Laura Oliver, GP from Preston
- Rev Dr Ian Paul, Member of the Archbishops’ Council
- Rev Jody Stowell, Vicar of St Michael and All Angels, Harrow, and co-convenor of Inclusive Evangelicals
- Fr Robert Thompson, St Mary’s Kilburn and St James’ West Hampstead, LGBTQIA campaigner
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