Niagara Diocese moves ahead on same-sex blessings

November 07, 2008
Rachel De Lazzer
The Hamilton Spectator
Nov 7, 2008

After three Anglican churches left its ranks this year over what they saw as a growing departure from biblical doctrine, the Niagara diocese has taken a further step toward conducting ceremonies to bless same-sex couples who have already been civilly married.

The Diocese of Niagara announced yesterday it will discuss its bishop's proposal to proceed with determining the ceremonial process to be used in the blessing of same-sex marriages. The discussion will be held tomorrow at its synod, or annual general meeting.

"This is an evolutionary process and we believe it's our responsibility to continue to discern where we believe God is moving us," said diocese spokesperson Michael Patterson. The resolution to proceed toward same-sex blessings was passed at the diocese's fall 2007 synod. the rest