Summary of the Debate

Revd Charles Mason moved the Motion and it was debated. The following points were raised:

• Concerns were expressed at any blessings of homosexual partnerships; any ordination of priests who were practising homosexuals; lack of abstinence in homosexual clergy relationships; the Bishop of Chelmsford's patronage of ‘Changing Attitude'; and indiscipline in regard to Biblical teaching and Anglican policy.
• The necessity of avoiding self-justification and of upholding discipline in the Church was emphasised.
• Different views of scripture were discussed. The Bishop's role was defended and the importance of listening and pastoral care for all people was stressed.
• Closer linkage was advocated between the Bishop's role and the responsibilities given to the Apostles as well as greater guardianship by the Bishop.
• Reference was made to the Bishop's responsibility under Church law to resolve issues in his own mind. The Motion was criticised for misreporting Church policy and Scripture.
• The priest's role was described as ensuring that no one was debarred from coming to God and from grace.
• The experience of having received physical and verbal attacks from the opposing extremes of public opinion was reported. It was stated that while Biblical scholarship did not always give clear answers, Jesus demonstrated the importance of praying and caring.
• The situation of homosexuals being subjected to beatings was deplored. Reference was made to the Biblical message of love. Members were advised not to send out the wrong message to people in society who were violent.
• The Motion was criticised for raising issues of confidence in the Bishop and of homosexuality in an indirect way.
• The idea that a priest could withhold grace was questioned. Emphasis was placed on the change that Jesus required. The effect of grace in transforming behaviour was stressed.
• Compliance with Church policy was urged. Support for the Motion was described as not being a phobic reaction. Prayers, respect, listening and friendship were offered.
• General Synod's position was described as calling for open dialogue. The Motion was criticised for avoiding this process and instead seeking to arrive at a destination.
• The view was expressed that the motion was not negative but favoured a positive outcome.
• The Church of England's openness and honesty was welcomed.
• Members were urged not to view the debate in authoritarian versus liberal terms. It was stated that Scripture called for right conduct but not for people to be condemned.
• The view was expressed that it was important to avoid over-simplification of complex issues. It was stated that different viewpoints were necessary in order to discover the truth, which made listening to gay and lesbian people essential, and that structures of Episcopal oversight were required.

Revd Steven Saxby proposed a Motion to Pass to Next Business. Revd Charles Mason replied. The Motion to Pass to Next Business was seconded by Marion Joslin and was carried.

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