Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has stated that same-sex marriage in the Church of England is threatened by legislative action. He spoke during the gathering of the global Anglican Consultative Council in Ghana, which followed church reforms enabling the blessing of same-sex couples in civil partnerships.
After a motion was passed by the General Synod, the church’s legislative body, the modifications were implemented. Its stance on homosexual marriage will not change, and same-sex couples will continue to be barred from marrying in churches. Mr. Welby met with MPs in the House of Commons last month and resisted further alterations to the church’s position on same-sex marriage.
According to the archbishop, many members of the General Synod have disregarded his worries on recent reforms, and he feels that this is linked to the rise of atheism in the United Kingdom. In addition, he asserted that a growing number of atheists, whom he describes to as “nones,” represent a threat because they are substituting religion with personal autonomy over their bodies.
He discussed a new morality created for “the wealthy, the powerful, and the academically well-educated.” He asserted that “birth with genetically designed offspring is not far off” and that many people believe they have the freedom to choose how and when to die.
The Archbishop of Canterbury is attempting to maintain unity within the Church of England about same-sex marriage. His remarks in Ghana demonstrate this, since he addressed Anglicans from all around the world, including some from nations where homosexuality is illegal. MPs have discussed potential measures to drive the Church into permitting same-sex marriages, but there is currently no indication that the government would support such a move.
Archbishop of Canterbury is a senior member of the House of Lords who has presided over chamber debates. He referred to former Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey’s advocacy for assisted suicide at Westminster, stating that his predecessor had “seriously advocated for assisted suicide in the House of Lords.”
Last week’s decision by the Church of England to allow prayers of blessings for same-sex couples has sparked controversy between those who agree with the decision and those who disagree. This includes conservatives who oppose the improvements as well as progressives who desired further change. The Archbishop of Canterbury is attempting to maintain both posts.
