The United Reformed Church (URC) has expressed dconcern over the UK Supreme Court’s recent ruling defining the legal term "woman" strictly in terms of biological sex.
The denomination said the decision risks further marginalising transgender, intersex, and non-binary individuals who they say already face significant social misunderstanding and exclusion.
In a statement issued today, the URC reaffirmed its belief in the "worth and dignity of all human beings as created in the image of God, regardless of their sex or gender".
The Church acknowledged the complexities of protecting individual rights in a diverse society, but lamented that the court's ruling could negatively affect vulnerable communities.
"We strive to be a place of inclusion, safety, and genuine welcome for all," the statement read. "We acknowledge that we are imperfect, but remain committed to following the example of Jesus, who uplifted the marginalised and challenged the powerful."
The URC has a longstanding history of promoting gender equality within its own ranks. In 1917, Constance Coltman became the first woman ordained as a minister in its Congregational tradition - well ahead of broader societal changes.
The Supreme Court ruling, issued on 16th April, clarified that sex-based legal protections in the UK Equality Act refer to biological sex.
The judges stressed that the ruling should not be considered a victory for any particular group and affirmed that transgender individuals continue to be protected from discrimination under existing law.
The Scottish Government, which had supported extending sex-based rights to transgender individuals with gender recognition certificates, was among the parties affected by the ruling.
