The Anglican Church’s bench of Bishops – the whole body of English prelates assembled in council – have stated their current stance on same-sex unions. It said it: “Abides by the Christian doctrine of marriage as the union of one man with one woman freely entered into for life. Acknowledges that whilst issues of human sexuality are not resolved, there are couples living in other life-long committed relationships who deserve the welcome, pastoral care and support of the Church.
It is also: “Committed to further listening, prayerful reflection and discernment regarding same-sex relationships.”
The stance was reiterated in the light of the resignation of Monmouth priest Andrew Morton’s public resignation over the church’s stance on same sex marriage.
In an interview with the BBC, the Reverend Morton said: “First of all I felt that the church’s position on same-sex relationships, never mind same-sex marriages, was increasingly judgemental and not really inclusive.
“I feel a greater degree of homophobia in the church than I’ve felt for a long time.
“I felt in order to offer an authentic critique of the church as an institution, the most honourable thing was to do it from the outside rather than from the inside.”
The Church in Wales is understood still to be debating the issue.