The U.S. Episcopal Church gave its clergy the go-ahead on Friday to bless some same-sex unions, such as civil partnerships in states that legally recognize them, setting the stage for further conflict with the wider Anglican world.
I was raised Anglican, and can vouch that the Church of England is pretty tame compared to some other religions.
The drama is unfolding against the backdrop of America's wider debate over sexual orientation issues, such as gay marriage, child adoption by same-sex parents and the status of homosexuals in the military.
According to the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, the United Church of Christ is alone among major U.S. Christian denominations in officially recognizing gay marriage. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America may decide in August to sanction same-sex marriage as well.
Polls consistently show gays and lesbians enjoying growing acceptance in American society. But fast-growing faiths in the United States such as many evangelical Protestant churches and the Mormon church regard homosexual relations as sinful and proscribed by scripture.
Yay, for progress. But something in the back of my brain tells me that this is a business decision by the Episcopal Church.
I'm also reminded of this quote: "Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine."
In related news, our first local Gay Pride Parade is taking place on August 1st. I have a couple of friends attending, and I'm thinking about showing my support and take it in.. maybe take a few photos and blog about it.
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