Gay marriage and the Church

This month has seen two interesting developments. First, one of the country’s most senior evangelical Church leaders has come out in favour of gay marriage. Second, a Government commitment to open up marriage to same-sex couples took an important step forward with the publication of the Marriage (same sex couples) Bill

The Rev Steve Chalke, founder of Oasis and leader of Oasis Church Waterloo, published an article in Christianity magazine entitled ‘a matter of integrity’

Mr Chalke, who a few weeks ago conducted his first gay blessing service in his church in Waterloo, says that the Bible paints a far more inclusive picture than many acknowledge. As well as the article in Christianity magazine, he has written an extended version that explores the issues and theology in greater depth. The story was picked up by the national media

You can read the article that appeared in Christianity magazine here

You can read the extended version here

A Government commitment to open up marriage to same-sex couples took an important step forward with the publication of the Marriage (same sex couples) Bill. The bill will:

• enable same-sex couples to marry in civil ceremonies
• ensure those religious organisations that wish to do so can opt in to conduct marriage ceremonies for same-sex couples
• protect those religious organisations that do not wish to marry same-sex couples from successful legal challenge