The same sex marriage issue will dominate the February 2023 Church of England General Synod. The troops are gathering and one hopes the theological arguments will be conducted in a calm, measured and thoughtful fashion. Sadly those seeking change will not win any vote, so the question is, what next? Stay to fight another day or leave? Painful decision.
In May this year the High Council of The Salvation Army meets to elect a new General. The Army is a top down organisation, not noted for any democratic process involving the lower ranks. For those seeking full inclusion for gay people who becomes General is important. Will that person be pro-inclusion? Will the new General be able to hold the line or will some territories leave?
Brave leadership will be required in both churches and decisive action. Head in the sands, dithering, complacency will not do. Both churches are losing members in the UK. Young people in particular are not buying into exclusionist churches. Progressive theology should be embraced and literalist approaches ditched. It won't happen though will it?
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