Anglican Church of Canada narrowly votes against same-sex marriage
The Anglican Church of Canada narrowly voted against authorising same-sex marriages on Monday after nearly a week of passionate debates about blessing such unions at the church’s triennial conference.
More than 200 delegates attending the six-day General Synod 2016 north of Toronto narrowly rejected the resolution after more than 60 speakers made their points, with most speaking in support of the resolution.
It is breaking my heart that there are people who see gay marriage as a separation from God and from love
Same-sex marriage has been legal in Canada since 2005, and Monday’s vote puts the Anglican Church – the third largest in Canada – out of step with most Canadians, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who recently took part in a gay pride parade in Toronto.
In order for the resolution to have passed, it required two-thirds support from each of three orders – the lay, clergy and bishops.
The bishops voted 68.42 per cent in favour of the resolution, and the lay delegates voted 72.22 per cent in favour. However, the clergy voted 66.23 per cent, just missing the percentage needed by a single vote.
