More Canadian Anglican Clergy May Now Bless Same-Sex Nuptials

[w8liftinglady]

http://www.edgedallas.com/news/international/news//120201/more_canadian_anglican_clergy_may_now_bless_same-sex_nuptials

More Anglican parishes in Canada may now bless same-sex nuptials, although clergy may not actually perform wedding rites for gay and lesbian families who are entering into marriage, CBC News reported on May 30.

"A blessing can only be given to couples who are legally married. It’s up to each priest and parish to decide whether to give it," the CBC article noted.

The newly granted latitude to bless same-sex spouses was given to Anglicans in Nova Scotia and on Prince Edward Island, following a decision made at the 143rd Synod of the diocese that includes those areas of Canada. The decision follows a similar one that gave Anglicans in Saskatoon the ability to bless same-sex wedded couples.

Canadian newspaper the Chronicle Herald reported on the synod’s decision in a May 29 article. In excess of 300 participants were at the synod, and when the motion was made to allow clerics to bless same-sex spouses, the "overwhelming majority" approved it, the article said. One attendee "left the event in disgust," added the newspaper.

"It’s a contentious issue and it will continue to be," said Rev. David Fletcher told the press, going on to say that the church should also bless unmarried couples.