As groups representing a significant number of both ordained and non-ordained members of the Church of Ireland we wish to express our deep and genuine sorrow at the announcement that a serving cleric of the Church of Ireland has entered into a Civil Partnership. In what follows we seek to express the depth and breadth of our hurt and concern over the specific questions raised in this instance, and by the broader issues that emerge.
First, we regret the apparent lack of regard for the doctrine and teaching of the Church of Ireland in relation to human sexuality and marriage. Founded on scripture, flowing from reason and following tradition, our church, in its teaching, life and liturgical practice, has always affirmed the sanctity of relational and sexual union between a man and woman in holy matrimony.
