California Bishop Clarifies Same-gender Union Policy
10/09/2006

California Bishop Marc Andrus has clarified existing diocesan policy to require that clergy seek his approval before solemnizing a gay union.

In an Oct. 4 letter to the clergy, Bishop Andrus said his decision to institute a formal policy on same-sex blessings arose from his desire to affirm his “commitment to the full inclusion of gay and lesbian persons in the life of the Church.”

Gay blessings in California were permitted under the rubric of pastoral care, he explained. “The decision to bless a holy union is, in the first instance, a discernment made by the couple in consultation with their priest.”

Same-sex couples were asked to submit to “the same careful counseling and preparation required of other couples.” the rest