Professor Helen King writes in response to the results of the PMM she brought to the final Synod of this quinquennium:
Together for the Church of England is disappointed that Synod has not chosen to end this quinquennium by proclaiming that the Church of England welcomes all, regardless of sexuality, and that we value the lives and ministries of our LGBTQIA+ people. The original Private Members’ Motion in my name focused on the pastoral needs of those who are in ‘committed, faithful, intimate’ same-sex relationships. It went beyond offering mere words of apology for the distress and pain inflicted by previous Synod motions, to recognise those in such relationships as faithful disciples of Christ – a self-evident fact to many of us. In discussions during the first few days of the Synod meeting, we chose to amend the motion to respond to concerns from our conservative siblings, adding a clear, factual statement that a range of views about such relationships remain in our Church.
The amendment was passed in all three Houses (bishops, clergy, laity). But when the amended motion – with identical wording to the amendment – was put to Synod, it was passed by the clergy and laity, yet a small majority of those bishops who were present chose to vote against it. As a result, we have missed the opportunity to express our gratitude and respect to, and delight in, the many lay people, clergy and indeed bishops who are LGBTQIA+, including those who are in loving and faithful relationships with a partner. It’s a very sad day when bishops don’t feel able to do such a simple yet powerful thing.
Together for the Church of England embraces the vision of a church which welcomes diversity in all its forms and that delights in each individual as wonderfully made in the image of God. We rejoice that, at this same Synod, neurodivergent people were recognised as intentionally and lovingly made and as a blessing to the Church. We trust that the strong majorities for the amended Private Members’ Motion in the Houses of Clergy and Laity will inform the discussions of the new Working Group on Relationships, Sexuality and Gender. As we move towards the elections for the next General Synod, we pray and work for a membership that more accurately reflects the reality of our Church across its parishes and chaplaincies, that is willing to say, unequivocally, that all truly are welcome in this place.
Leave a Reply