The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement (LGCM) welcomes the recommendations of the Piling Reportand the small step of the Church of England towards greater inclusion but urges them to continue this work to enable the church to witness effectively to God’s love for all.
Whilst there are many positive recommendations contained in the report, not least of all the call to apologise for the years of homophobia and transphobia, it doesn’t go far enough to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or trans (LGB and T) people will feel included, welcomed and above all, safe within the church.
The Rev Sharon Ferguson, Chief Executive, said ‘This was a great opportunity for the Church of England to make some substantial changes to embrace all God’s children and I am sad that it hasn’t grasped it fully. Whilst the freedom for clergy to ‘mark’ committed same sex relationships following civil partnership or marriage registration is a cause for celebration it is a shame that a formal liturgy of blessing wasn’t included.’
LGCM is pleased that the report recognises and validates the sincerity of the arguments put forward by LGB and T Christians and that the need for further dialogue has been highlighted.
