An Orlando Episcopal Bishop has announced he will not permit same-sex blessings within his diocese, even though those blessings have been approved by the Episcopal Church's House of Deputies and the House of Bishops. Bishop Gregory Brewer made the announcement July 18 via a letter to his congregation.
He acknowledged the church's diversity: “I know there are parishioners who are in same sex relationships. I know there are parishioners who wrestle with their same sex attractions and in response have chosen a life of celibacy. I know there are parishioners who have gay friends and family members, some of whom are in active relationships and some are not.”
Bishop said the Diocese of Central Florida “are not of one mind” about blessing same-sex unions and said the liturgy approved by sect leadership is “a step towards redefining Christian marriage.”
“As such, I cannot endorse or extend permission for the use of this rite by the clergy under my care in the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida,” Bishop Brewer wrote.
Despite his objection to the same sex union blessing, Brewer wrote that he hopes the diocese can still be a community that “vocally condemns violence and prejudice” against gay people, respects human dignity and is committed to standing “beside all people who desire to follow Christ.”
“In other words, is it possible for us to truly love one another in the name of Christ and, at the same time, not move towards the liturgical blessings of gay relationships?” the Bishop asked.
He read the letter July 21 at a “General Convention debriefing” at the Cathedral Church of St. Luke in downtown Orlando.
