ECUSA Head: Ban on Gay 'Marriage' Blessings Unlikely

Frank Griswold, the bishop responsible for ordaining the gay bishop last year, said he believes a complete moratorium on blessing gay ‘marriages’ is 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.

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.

Top Stories