The Archbishop of York says clergy wellbeing and considering whether to introduce bespoke services for same sex couples will be among his priorities as he takes temporary leadership of the Church of England this year.
In a letter published on the Archbishop of York's website Most Rev Stephen Cottrell said he wanted to do everything possible to increase the stipend level for clergy who are paid for their ministry by their congregation. Last year saw a seven per cent increase in the minimum stipend level taking it to £28,670.
Archbishop Cottrell also said he wants to look at clergy terms of service to increase accountability (including that of bishops) and consider whether clergy should become employees.
He will continue at the helm of the Church of England until the Autumn of this year when a successor to Justin Welby is expected to be appointed Archbishop of Canterbury.
He described the role as being 'at least four jobs wrapped into one. Spiritual leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Spiritual Head of the Church of England. Primate of the Province of Canterbury. Diocesan Bishop.'
On the contentious issue of sexuality and same sex marriage, Archbishop Cottrell said that later this year the introduction of bespoke services for same sex couples would be considered. Currently clergy are able to bless couples in a same sex relationship with special prayers of love and faith. But he added that any decision should 'properly honour the conscience and theological conviction of clergy, lay ministers and churches who can’t use the services.'
The Archbishop, who will work closely with the Bishop of London Rt Rev Dame Sarah Mullally in her role as Dean of the Province of Canterbury, said that while he was aware of his 'own needs and shortcomings' he would endeavour to 'steer through the change we need on these important issues and to hold myself accountable, both to the processes we have at the moment and to the new ones we will introduce.
'I will then look forward to working closely with whomever the Spirit calls to be the next Archbishop of Canterbury.'