The Episcopal Church will now allow priests to conduct services blessing same-sex relationships. The denomination’s House of Bishops approved the policy Monday, and delegates to the national convention approved the measure on Tuesday becoming the largest U.S. religious denomination to approve such a ritual.

What’s your response?

Is this an appropriate theological response? Is this a good compromise?”

Isn’t it interesting that well meaning men and women continue to try to tweak God’s word to make it more suitable and pliable in order to be more inclusive and not offend. Christ came to the earth to teach and to invite all to follow Him; He does not change the teaching to suit man; man must change to follow Christ. His life He freely gave to ransom all of us. His is an open invitation to “Come Follow Me”.

The Episcopal response allowing priests to offer blessings upon same-sex relationships is certainly appropriate for the Episcopal Church; any Church has the right to practice as they deem appropriate as long as it does not conflict with the laws of the land.
In December of 2010, leaders from Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, Evangelical, Jewish, Lutheran, Mormon, Orthodox, Pentecostal, and Sikh communities in the United States signed “The Protection of Marriage: A shared Commitment” letter which reaffirms their commitment toward the protection of marriage as the union of one man and one woman. The letter states in part:
“Marriage is the permanent and faithful union of one man and one woman. As such, marriage is the natural basis of the family. Marriage is an institution fundamental to the well-being of all of society, not just religious communities. … We honor the unique love between husbands and wives; the indispensible place of fathers and mothers; and the corresponding rights and dignity of all children. Marriage thus defined is a great good in itself, and it also serves the good of others and society in innumerable ways. The preservation of the unique meaning of marriage is not a special or limited interest but serves the good of all.”

As we continue the debate on same-sex gender attraction, let us remember to be civil in our dialogue and respectful of our difference. All are children of God and he has placed us here for a wise purpose.