Statement of the Apostolic Johannite Church in response to the Anglican Church of Canada’s General Synod Resolution on Same-Sex Blessings.
It is with profound sadness that I read the news of the defeat of the resolution to allow an individual diocese to allow for same-sex blessings within its individual parishes. Laity and Clergy alike had approved the resolution but it was narrowly defeated by the House of Bishops by a vote of 21 to 19.
Nevertheless, given that the resolution had passed both the laity and clergy previously, it is not without a measure of hope and optimism that this resolution will, in time, be passed.
The Apostolic Johannite Church continues to affirm and uphold the Ninth Principle in the Statement of Principles that the Sacred Flame is present in each human being, and thus its offices, and by natural extension, its Sacraments are open to all regardless of race, gender, status or orientation.
We likewise continue to affirm and uphold the sacramental understanding of matrimony, which is created by the couple themselves through the signifying of their commitment, as the principle matter and form, with intent being demonstrated by the same. The role of both clergy and civil authority alike is to act only as official witness on behalf of the community.
In conclusion, we continue to affirm, uphold, and welcome all those so called to a vocation of union and all those in the midst of discerning the same.
Given in Calgary, on the Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist,at the Oratory of St. John the Beloved
<The original of the statement can be found here>
