The Bishop of Ebbsfleet has urged his clergy to say “no” to PLF, their PCCs to say “no” to PLF, and “no” to quitting the Church of England.
In an ad clerum letter dated 12 December 2023, the Rt. Rev. Rob Munro responded to the Church of England bishops’ decision to commend Prayers of Love and Faith (PLF) that would include blessings for same-sex couples within the Church.
These prayers were allowed at the discretion of the incumbent, either in private or as part of an existing public worship service. However, he stated that these prayers should not simulate marriage, adding that standalone services using these prayers have not yet been authorized for experimental use, but guidance on this is expected in the future.
The bishops’ commendation for PLF did not grant formal authorization or legal status, but rather provide additional resources for the incumbent’s use, he explained. The House of Bishops intended these prayers not undermine the current doctrine and teaching of the Church regarding marriage. However, allowing such prayers in liturgy may confuse and mislead people about sin and salvation, Bishop Munro stated.
The lack of completed pastoral guidance and reassurance created legal and vulnerability risks for clergy and parishes. While the decision to use these prayers is ultimately up to the clergy, Bishop Munro strongly recommended against their use.
He advised against using the prayers due to their divisive nature, questionable legal status, potential confusion of Biblical teachings, and lack of clear guidance for conscience. In situations of deep division and uncertainty, he observed, it was better not to change things but instead work towards deeper understanding, prayer, and unity.
He further urged PCCs to pass a resolution not to use PLF due to the hurt and divisions they have caused. If there was division within a PCC over PLF, a resolution was not necessary, he observed, as the decision ultimately rested with the incumbent.
The Church of England had been structured to support local incumbents in remaining faithful to biblical norms despite external pressures, he said. A parish incumbent was responsible for upholding Biblical standards in his church and ensuring the congregation’s spiritual welfare. Even a bishop can be held accountable if they did not meet these standards, Bishop Munro said.
The Biblical norms for marriage and sexual behavior in God’s Word had not changed, nor had the Church of England’s teaching on this issue changed. Bishop Munro urged his clergy to look to the Book of Revelation, where Christ calls out the church’s leadership in Thyratira for tolerating false teaching on sexual immorality, but encouraged the faithful to persevere in the truth.
Some may feel compelled to leave the Church of England due to conscience issues, he observed, but he did not believe the proposed changes hindered Gospel proclamation or godly living. He asked his clergy to stand fast and remain in the Church of England and contend for truth and rebuke error.
