Gay marriage and the church

Same-Sex Marriage

Legal proceedings and legislative action in a number of countries have given civil recognition to same-sex marriage relationships, and the question of same-sex marriage continues to be widely debated. As we confront this and other issues, we encourage all to bear in mind our Heavenly Father’s purposes in creating the earth and providing for our mortal birth and experience here as His children. “God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.” “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”Marriage between a man and a woman was instituted by God and is central to His plan for His children and for the well-being of society. Strong families, guided by a loving mother and father, serve as the fundamental institution for nurturing children, instilling faith, and transmitting to future generations the moral strengths and values that are vital to

Same-sex marriage

Following a vote at the General Assembly, Church of Scotland ministers and deacons who choose to do so may wed same-sex couples.

The General Assembly voted to to convert a standing church law to allow the right to apply to become an authorised celebrant to conduct same-sex ceremonies. The vote came after a majority of presbyteries (29) approved the "Solemnisation of Same Sex Marriage Overture", which was sent to the presbyteries for consideration under the Barrier Behave. Twelve presbyteries voted against approval.

Only those who decide to participate in the solemnisation of, or be involved in the arrangements for, a same-sex marriage will do so - it is not a requirement.

Under the terms of the legislation, an individual must apply to the Principal Clerk's office to become a celebrant. An application would then be made to the Registrar General for Scotland on their behalf.

The Principal Clerk will maintain an up-to-date record of celebrants and they would be personally responsible for renewing their status every three years.

The Church's Legal Questions

Why This Issue Matters

I’m a pastor. My concern is with the church—what she believes, what she celebrates, and what she proclaims. Achieving some legal and political end is not my primary calling and yet, I’m concerned that many younger Christians—ironically, often those most attuned to societal transformation and social justice—do not see the connection between a traditional view of marriage and human flourishing. Many Christians are keen to resurrect the old pro-choice mantra touted by some Catholic politicians: personally opposed, but publicly none of my business. I want Christians to see why this issue matters and why—when same-sex marriage became the law of the land—the integrity of the family was weakened and the freedom of the church was threatened.

I know this is an increasingly unpopular line of reasoning, even for those who are inclined to accept the Bible’s teaching about marriage. Perhaps you believe that homosexual behavior is biblically unacceptable. And yet, you wonder what’s wrong with supporting same-sex marriage as a legal and political right. After all, we don

Pope Francis allows blessings for same-sex couples under certain conditions

The Vatican has approved a landmark ruling to allow Roman Catholic priests to administer blessings to same-sex couples as extended as they are not part of regular Church rituals or liturgies, nor given in contexts related to civil unions or weddings.

A document from the Vatican’s doctrinal office approved by Pope Francis on Monday said such blessings would not legitimise irregular situations but be a sign that God welcomes all.

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The document backed “the possibility of blessings for couples in irregular situations and for couples of the same sex” but “this blessing should never be imparted in concurrence with the ceremonies of a civil union, and not ev