Head of US Episcopal Diocese Enflames Anglican Divisions by Granting Same-Sex Blessings
The controversial head of the Diocese of Connecticut has enflamed the divisions within the Anglican Communion this week, after he announced that Episcopal Church priests in the diocese may give pastoral blessings to same-sex unions in church ceremonies.
by Daniel Blake
Tuesday, October 24, 2006

The controversial head of the Diocese of Connecticut has enflamed the divisions within the Anglican Communion this week, after he announced that Episcopal Church priests in the diocese may give pastoral blessings to same-sex unions in church ceremonies.

The announcement has been even more controversial as it reverses a long-standing policy in the diocese, and is sure to anger conservative Christian groups.

Bishop Andrew Smith's decision will not allow Episcopal clergy to officiate at civil union ceremonies but will permit priests, through a blessing ceremony in the church, to acknowledge gay and lesbian couples who have had a civil union granted by the state authorities. the rest