Is it theologically possible to hold that God's blessing can rest upon sexually-active same-sex relationships and same-sex marriages? Is it therefore legitimate for the Church of England to bless them?
This study carefully examines the papers on blessing by Walter Moberly and Isabelle Hamley, produced for the Church of England's General Synod in July 2023, then explores the pattern for God's blessing, as found in Scripture. The principles are more widely applicable.
Martin Davie concludes that if such prayers of blessing were to be authorised, it would mean deciding that God's rejection of same-sex unions no longer applies.
WITH GOD'S APPROVAL? A theological exploration of blessing same-sex
couples, in dialogue with Walter Moberly and Isabelle Hamley
Part I: An introduction to the papers
by Walter Moberly and Isabelle Hamley
Part II: A critical examination of the papers
by Moberly and Hamley
Part III: A biblical theology of blessing, and why it rules out the blessing
of same-sex relationships
Conclusion In summary
Dr Martin Davie is a theological consultant to the Church of England Evangelical Council (CEEC). From 2000-2013 he was the Theological Secretary to the Church of England's Council for Christian Unity, Theological Consultant to the House of Bishops, and Secretary of the Faith and Order Commission.
