Church of England Faces Threat of Split Over Stance on Gay Couples
The Church of England is facing a potential split as an alliance of church leaders threatens to break away over plans to allow standalone services for gay couples. This proposed change, which is set to be discussed at the upcoming synod next month, has sparked significant controversy and dissent within the institution. In a letter addressed to the two senior-most bishops of the Church, the dissenting group of leaders expressed their strong opposition to the proposal, stating that it is "clearly contrary" to the Church's doctrine, which affirms that marriage is between a man and a woman. This alliance, backed by over 2,000 clergy, argues that permitting standalone services for gay couples would represent a significant departure from traditional teachings on marriage. The Church of England, which does not allow same-sex marriages in its 16,000 churches, made a landmark decision in 2022 to allow priests to bless same-sex couples. However, these blessings are only permitte...
