CHICAGO, IL, July 10, 2012The Chicago Consultation issued this statement today from its co-convener, the Rev. Lowell Grisham:
"For 30 years, the Episcopal Church has prayed, studied and discerned and, in doing so, we have seen the evidence of God's blessing in the lives of same-sex couples. Today we recognized the Holy Spirit at work in the committed, life-long unions of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Across the Anglican Communion, there are Episcopalians and other Anglicans who have been drawn further into fidelity and service to the world by living in committed same-sex partnerships based on holy love and the gift of seeing Christ in one another.
"We learn as we pray, and this provisional rite for blessing same sex unions will benefit from the use and review of people across the church. We look forward to continuing prayerful conversations and study with our brothers and sisters in the Episcopal Church and across the Anglican Communion."
The Chicago Consultation, a group of Episcopal and Anglican bishops, clergy and lay people, supports the full inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Christians in the Episcopal Church and the worldwide Anglican Communion. To learn more about the Chicago Consultation, visit www.chicagoconsultation.org .
HRC Press Release: Episcopal Church Approves New Rites for Same-Sex Unions, Passes Transgender Inclusive Policies in Ordination and Church Life, and Supports Equal Immigration Legislation
WASHINGTON — The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, today applauded the Episcopal Church for approving a new liturgy for blessing same-sex unions, two proposals adding gender identity and expression to the Church's nondiscrimination canons for ordained ministry and in the "life, worship, and governance of the Church," and a resolution supporting legislation for equal immigration rights for same-sex couples. The votes took place at the denomination's General Convention in Indianapolis. While the passage signifies a step in the right direction, the Canons of the Church still use the definition of "marriage" as between a man and a woman.
"This is a great day for the Episcopal Church and people of faith everywhere," said Rev. MacArthur Flournoy, deputy director of HRC's Religion and Faith Program. "The Church reaffirmed to LGBT Episcopalians they are also God's children and they deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion."
These votes were a long time in the making. Since the 1960s, many clergy have provided private blessings to gay and lesbian couples, but the Church had no official practice. Following the 2009 General Convention, the Church said bishops may provide "generous pastoral response" to gay couples, especially in states that allow civil unions or gay marriages. The Church has been relatively silent on issues related to transgender clergy until this weekend.
"The Episcopal Church one of a growing number of denominations to see a new day in the intersection of faith and sexual orientation and gender identity. This is not only good for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people but it is good for the soul of the church," added Rev. Flournoy.
The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.