The Diocese of London has released a statement saying it understands there are "questions" regarding a commissioning service at St Helen's Bishopsgate, in which seven church leaders were commissioned to provide spiritual guidance ministry, following the General Synod decision to allow bishops to bless same-sex couples.
The Church of England’s Living in Love and Faith process allows churches to appoint alternative figures to carry out sacramental duties if a church does not agree with its bishop’s stance on same-sex blessings.
The Diocese of London said: “We are conscious of questions raised regarding the recent commissioning services that have taken place at All Souls Langham Place and St Helen’s Bishopsgate. Incumbents have been reminded before and following these services of their responsibilities to ensure that the law of the Church of England as expressed in canon and liturgy is observed, and that all safeguarding requirements are fully met.
“In terms of the ongoing LLF process, we recognise that some will feel the need for structural provision in the light of what has been passed by General Synod. The London College of Bishops represents a breadth of traditions, and together is committed to ensuring the necessary support is available to all equally in our Diocese.
“There is more work to be done, both in London and across the country. We hope that everyone will work with the process to ensure a future in which all can flourish in the Church of England.”
Affirming Catholicism released a statement strongly disapproving of the service, saying the commissioning makes “a mockery of Holy Sacraments”, by allowing laypeople to conduct the work of bishops.
Rev Dr Ian Paul, of the Archbishop's Council, told Premier Christian Radio that the commissioning service has not breached precedent in the Church of England: “There’s nothing unusual happening here. It was very clear that this wasn’t a service commissioning alternative bishops. This was a service offering oversight for people in the current situation we’re facing.
“We’ve got all sorts of networks in the Church of England where people enjoy informal oversight, like New Wine and other organisations. The idea of sharing bread and wine, that’s happened for years with the home group movement.
“However, what it is signalling is the seriousness of the crisis in the Church of England. These actions aren’t amounting to a split in themselves, but are a response to what some bishops are doing.
“We find our doctrine rooted in scripture. The doctrine of marriage, according to our cannons, is according to the teachings of our Lord; one man and one woman.”