The Church of England’s general synod has voted in favour of offering blessings to same-sex couples in civil partnerships and marriages. A marathon near-eight hour debate across two days ended in a vote for the proposals on Thursday at a meeting of what is known as the church’s parliament.
A packed room at Church House in Westminster remained relatively silent when the result of the vote was announced. Immediately before the vote a minute of silence was observed followed by a prayer said by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.
The position on gay marriage will not change and same-sex couples will still be unable to marry in church. The motion also included an acknowledgement of a “failure” to welcome LGBTQI+ people and a repentance for the harm they have experienced - and continue to experience - in the church.
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