Go-ahead for bishops in civil partnerships welcome first step

 
The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement has welcomed the news that the Church of England will allow clergy in civil partnerships to become bishops provided they are celibate, and hopes for further progress towards full inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people in the life of the church.

 

The Revd Sharon Ferguson, Chief Executive of LGCM said, 'LGBT clergy and laypersons already make a major contribution to the Church of England, but have faced discrimination even if they make considerable sacrifices to abide by church policy on sexuality. This has undermined the church's credibility in sharing the good news of God's love for all. Removing the ban on bishops in civil partnerships is a positive measure but we must now see it come to fruition.'

 

However, it is now recognised by numerous church members that loving and committed relationships should be valued and celebrated, whether or not the partners are celibate. Many theologians have made the case for a more just and compassionate approach in which truthfulness is not punished. It is time to move towards removing all obstacles and treating LGBT and heterosexual people equally.

For more details from the BBC website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-20918806