Evangelical Christian leaders have criticised as “a source of deep disquiet” new plans for prayers for gay and lesbian couples. Bishops in the Church in Wales have circulated a pastoral letter “to all the faithful” concerning gay and lesbian Christians. It follows an 18-month consultation in Wales on whether it would be “appropriate” to acknowledge same sex unions in Church through a blessing or even marriage.

“Given that the civil law of the realm has now been changed to permit marriage of same sex couples, many see this as a natural next step,” says the letter. It became clear that although a majority of members supported change, there was no consensus and any move to change would not secure the two-thirds majority needed from the Church’s governing body. FULL REPORT


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