he Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, has addressed his diocesan synod on the controversial issue of same sex blessings. Church of England bishops have commended Prayers of Love and Faith for use in existing church services for stable, committed same-sex couples to receive prayers of blessing. But opponents say gay relationships are un-Biblical and their vigorous opposition has seen calls for a parallel organisation with their own bishops, clergy training and money.
The archbishop said that “if the church could find ways of living together with its conscientious disagreement, this will not only be good for the church, but good for the world”.
The issue is being discussed by working groups who will provide, in time for synod in February 2026, proposals for standalone Prayers of Love and Faith with reassurances for those who disagree; and a timetable for considering whether clergy can enter same-sex civil marriages.
The bishop who was leading the workshop process, the Bishop of Leicester, Martyn Snow, has recently resigned saying he did not think an agreement could be reached under his leadership.
The Church of England has confirmed there will be no replacement for him.