Dean considers blessing gay couples in civil partnerships
Stephen Bates, religious affairs correspondent
Thursday February 16, 2006
The Guardian

The dean of a Cambridge college has said he will consider offering blessings for same sex couples, in the first breach of the Church of England's ban on clergy offering services after civil partnership ceremonies. The Rev Jeremy Caddick, Dean of Emmanuel College, has written to the Bishop of Ely telling him that the college does not see itself as falling under his jurisdiction.

Mr Caddick's letter says although no requests have yet been made: "We would not wish to close the door to having services for members of the college community who requested them. In a community such as this one, people know there is considerable diversity in human sexual relationships and, in general, see the importance of affirming and celebrating those that are faithful and life affirming." Story