On Wednesday 15 October, an update was released by the Church of England on the Living in Love and Faith process, following a House of Bishops’ residential meeting the previous week.
The House of Bishops reviewed documents produced by the Church of England’s Legal Office and the Faith and Order Commission (FAOC) addressing outstanding questions following General Synod decisions in 2023 and the commendation of the Prayers of Love and Faith (or PLF). These questions included how and whether bespoke/standalone services (where PLF would be used) could be introduced and the legality of clergy entering same sex marriages.
The update reports that legal advice regarding bespoke services indicates the need for a Canon B2 process involving two thirds majorities in the three houses of Synod at final approval.
With regard to clergy same sex marriage, the update notes the legal advice to the House of Bishops explaining that legislation would be needed to change the current position. It reports that legislation would need to include a Measure (made by Synod and Parliament) as well as an amending Canon, both of which would require simple majorities in the three houses of Synod at final approval.
In response to the update, Revd Canon John Dunnett, National Director, CEEC, said: “It is helpful that the House of Bishops has acknowledged the significant theological and legal impediments to standalone services and clergy same sex marriage.
“At the same time, the update does not in any way indicate that the House has resolved not to progress things further or that no further change will be forthcoming. This therefore leaves many questions unanswered and concerns unresolved – whatever your view of Living in Love and Faith’’.
CEEC’s National Director, John Dunnett, will be attending the Living in Love and Faith working groups’ residential this weekend, alongside General Synod members from both orthodox and revisionist communities, where there will no doubt be reflections on the bishops’ statement.
CEEC will offer further comment next week.