Church of England backs services for gay couples

Source: BBC

Church of England backs services for gay couples

15 November 2023

By Harry Farley, religion and ethics producer
BBC News

Gay couples will be able to have special services of blessing in Church of England parishes for the first time.

The services, while not formal weddings, will be able to include the wearing of rings, prayers, confetti and a blessing from the priest.

The amendment to back the services on a trial basis passed the Church's parliament by one vote.

The Church of England's official teaching is that marriage is only between one man and one woman.

Earlier this year, bishops refused to back a change in teaching which would have allowed priests to marry same-sex couples, but said they would allow prayers of blessings for people in gay relationships as part of wider services.

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Read more: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-67432854