A086 Authorize Rites to Bless Relationships
In response to Resolution 2009-C056, the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music developed “The Witnessing and Blessing of a Lifelong Covenant” as a rite for blessing same-sex relationships. The rite was authorized for use by the 2012 General Convention (Resolution 2012-A049), then revised and authorized for use by the 2015 General Convention (Resolution 2015-A054). This rite is intended for use only in jurisdictions of The Episcopal Church in which 1) the couple desiring marriage are of the same sex; and 2) the civil jurisdiction in which the marriage would occur does not allow marriage of same-sex persons. This resolution proposes that this rite be included in the Enriching Our Worship series.
Explanation
In response to Resolution 2009-C056, the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music developed “The Witnessing and Blessing of a Lifelong Covenant” as a rite for blessing same-sex relationships. The rite was authorized for use by the 2012 General Convention (Resolution 2012-A049), then revised and authorized for use by the 2015 General Convention (Resolution 2015-A054). This rite is intended for use only in jurisdictions of The Episcopal Church in which 1) the couple desiring marriage are of the same sex; and 2) the civil jurisdiction in which the marriage would occur does not allow marriage of same-sex persons. This resolution proposes that this rite be included in the Enriching Our Worship series.