ECUSA Head: Ban on Gay 'Marriage' Blessings Unlikely

By Pauline J. Chang

On Sunday, October 24, 2004, the head of the Episcopal Church USA (ECUSA) said he thought a ban on the blessing of same-sex “marriages” was unlikely, despite the recent release of a church report on homosexuality that called for a complete moratorium on such "blessings".

Frank Griswold, head bishop of the ECUSA said the denomination’s bishops will meet again on January 2005 to discuss the full implications of the Windsor Report on homosexuality and church unity. The Report, which was released on Monday, Oct. 18, chided the US branch of the Anglican Communion for consecrating an openly gay bishop last year. The Windsor Report also asked Anglican Communion members to halt such ordinations as well as the blessings of homosexual unions.

Upon reading the report, Gene Robinson, the homosexual bishop whose ordination stirred the near-schismatic debate within the Anglican Church, said he did not regret his appointment.

"We regret how difficult this made things in many parts of the communion," Robinson said. "Certainly, I do not regret that my becoming a bishop has been a real blessing"

Griswold, who consecrated the gay bishop, said that despite the strife and schism, he would “probably” ordain Robinson again. Griswold added that more than likely, blessings of gay relationships will continue in the church.

"Probably in an appropriate way pastoral care will be extended to gay and lesbian people," said Griswold. "I'm not exactly sure what will happen in terms of some formal moratorium. I rather doubt that will occur."

Griswold added that “the confirmation process [to ordain homosexual bishops] will be guided now by the greater sensitivities that we would all have to how people feel in other parts of the communion."

"I think the overwhelming reality of Anglicanism is what I would call the diverse center, which is rather silent. You only hear from the edges. I think the diverse center which is the overwhelming reality will carry the Church forward though there may be some attrition at either end," Griswold continued.

  • [Exclusive Interview] A revelation within the brink of life and death — Meg Leung’s mission in Christian art

    Meg Leung (梁麗橋), an artist with a lifelong love for watercolor painting, sees her art as more than a means of expressing her inner world; it is a bridge connecting her to God. Her artistic journey has revealed God’s perfect plan and inspired her to communicate the power of faith through her wor

  • Transgenderism a fundamental human right? Hong Kong public disagrees, survey finds

    A 2024 survey from the Society for Truth and Light (明光社)'s Center for Life and Ethics Research reveals that respondents from various backgrounds prioritize personal safety and fairness when it comes to transgender issues. When laws involve moral judgments, most respondents believe courts should not make the decisions. The study also indicates that religious believers share similar views with non-religious respondents, reflecting that many churches may rarely address gender topics in depth.

  • Discipleship and Evangelism: Walking the Path of the Great Commission

    Like an ever-flowing spring, the gospel refreshes dry, parched lands and needs our unwavering passion and steadfast faith to transform lives and bring renewal. The "flame in our hearts" calls Christians to keep their faith and love for the Lord ablaze, representing the work and power of the Holy Spirit, driving us to proclaim God's glory boldly.

  • North America Chinese Evangelical Seminary year-end report highlights significant ministry progress

    As the year draws to a close, Rev. James Liu, President of the Chinese Evangelical Seminary North America (CESNA), reflected on the seminary’s remarkable growth and ministry development over the past year. Dedicated to providing theological education to Chinese Christians, CESNA continues to uphold its mission to remain faithful to the gospel and nurture believers. This year’s achievements span academic, ministerial, and outreach endeavors, fostering spiritual growth and advancing missionary wo