Same Sex Marriage
Since the Government introduced the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act in 2013, we have been listening to each other in order to discern our response as Baptists Together.
Our Baptist Union Council has met to engage in this discernment through a time of intense prayer, listening and discussion. Many of you will have contributed to that process through our ‘talkingtogether’ email address.
Discussion Process
Council Statement
Ministerial Recognition Rules - Marriage
At the March 2022 Council, members considered a request received in a letter signed by 70 people who are part of Baptists Together, the majority of whom are ministers, to revise an example of gross misconduct of the Ministerial Recognition Rules.
The specific clause (Appendix 3, Section 4.3) under consideration says:
‘Sexual Misconduct which brings the church and ministry into disrepute. NB This specifically includes sexual intercourse and other genital sexual activity outside of marriage (as defined exclusively as between a man and a woman).’
The request is that the last section in brackets is removed, which would mean that a minister who is in a same-sex marriage would no longer be committing gross misconduct and lose their accreditation.
Mission. Marriage. Update from our Core Leadership Team
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Our Baptists Together Core Leadership Team (CLT) met in person in June 2022 and Lynn wrote to all ministers and churches directly to share the key themes covered. Click here for the content of her letter.
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Click here for the end of year update sent to all ministers and churches in December 2022.
Other Resources