From Connecticut-
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Ordained Ministry:
We are writing as a follow-up to our May 2012 “Episcopal Epistle” and Clergy Conference “indaba” with respect to the pastoral needs of gay and lesbian couples seeking to be married in The Episcopal Church in Connecticut.
As expected, the 77th General Convention of The Episcopal Church engaged deeply with questions related to the blessing for same-sex couples. Holy listening and a generosity of spirit characterized the discussions and decisions of the Convention related to such blessings. In Resolutions A049 and A050 the General Convention provided for a rite of blessing for same-sex couples and called the church to study canonical and liturgical limitations related to marriage equality. Resolution A049 states in part:
Resolved, That the 77th General Convention authorize for provisional use “The Witnessing and Blessing of a Lifelong Covenant” from “Liturgical Resources I: I Will Bless You and You Will Be a Blessing” beginning the First Sunday of Advent 2012, under the direction and subject to the permission of the bishop exercising ecclesiastical authority; and be it further
Resolved, That bishops, particularly those in dioceses within civil jurisdictions where same-sex marriage, civil unions, or domestic partnerships are legal, may provide generous pastoral response to meet the needs of members of this Church; and be it further
Resolved, That bishops may authorize adaptation of these materials to meet the needs of members of this Church …
As your bishops we commend the entire report of The Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music known as “Liturgical Resources I: I Will Bless You and You will be a Blessing,” which can be found on our diocesan website. In the resource you will find both the rite as adopted by the General Convention as well as valuable theological, and legal and canonical discussions related to the blessing of same-sex relationships. We particularly commend the pastoral resources for preparing same-sex couples for a liturgy of blessing.
More here-
http://www.livingchurch.org/blessings-weddings-conn
No comments:
Post a Comment