The Church in Wales has delayed plans to introduce legislation allowing same-sex couples to marry in church.

The Church's Bench of Bishops, the denomination's executive branch, had previously said a Bill could be introduced at the Governing Body's meeting in April next year.

However, the bishops now say more time is needed for theological reflection and to consider the Church's understanding of marriage.

The Church in Wales already allows same-sex couples to have their relationships blessed in church. That provision, introduced initially on a trial basis, was made permanent by the Governing Body in April this year.

However, there is an important distinction between blessing a same-sex relationship and conducting a same-sex marriage. Same-sex couples can receive a blessing following a civil marriage or civil partnership, but the Church in Wales does not currently conduct same-sex marriages themselves.

The bishops say there has been "positive but yet frank interaction" since the decision to make the blessings permanent.

They say they remain committed to exploring whether the Church should introduce equal marriage, but believe further discussion is needed.

A facilitated conversation involving two external experts - one representing a traditional perspective and one a progressive perspective - is expected to take place at the April 2027 meeting.

A neutral doctrinal paper will also be prepared to examine possible forms of legislation.