House of Bishops shares letter to the Church as Living in Love and Faith approaches conclusion
The House of Bishops has shared a letter to the wider Church of England setting out an agreed position as it prepares to bring the Living in Love and Faith (LLF) process – which explores the Church’s approach to identity, sexuality, relationships and marriage – to a conclusion.
The letter, in the form of a statement from the House, speaks about proposed new bodies to be set up once LLF comes to a conclusion; confirms an agreed approach to any further changes and rules out so-called Delegated Episcopal Ministry at this stage.
The Living in Love and Faith process is part of a longer journey of the Church of England to listen, learn and respond to changing views in our society towards identity, sexuality, relationships and marriage. Despite big differences over the best approach to take, the Church agrees it needs to better include and support LGBTQI+ people.
In July 2024, General Synod asked the House of Bishops to undertake further work on two aspects of the LLF process:
- The Prayers of Love and Faith, specifically on how to use these in so-called ‘bespoke’ services and what pastoral reassurance might be needed for this.
- A timetable for consideration of the question on removing restrictions for clergy entering same-sex civil marriages.
The House of Bishops has asked the Faith and Order Commission (FAOC), and the Episcopal Reference Group (the episcopal members of FAOC), together with the LLF team and the LLF Working Groups for advice and to draft proposals. The draft proposals remain flexible, and both consultations and further theological advice will help the House of Bishops refine them, before deciding if and how to take them forward, including bringing them back General Synod to be discussed and voted on.
About Living in Love and Faith
How do questions about identity, sexuality, relationships and marriage fit within the bigger picture of the good news of Jesus Christ? What does it mean to live in love and faith together as a Church?
Find out moreBishops' response to Living in Love and Faith
A response from the Bishops of the Church of England about identity, sexuality, relationships and marriage.
Learn moreExplore the LLF resources
You can find the LLF Book, Course, story films, podcasts and online library by registering on the LLF Hub here.
Find the resources