Faith
Church of England Closes LLF Debate
Faith Facts
- The Church of England’s House of Bishops has announced the conclusion of the Living in Love and Faith (LLF) process, which examined issues of identity, relationships, and marriage in light of biblical teaching.
- Prayers of Love and Faith for same-sex couples were approved in 2023, but further changes, including standalone services and clergy same-sex unions, require formal canonical processes before moving forward.
- A new Working Group will study theological and legal issues surrounding blessings and same-sex marriage, reporting recommendations within the next two years.
The Living in Love and Faith process, launched in 2017, aimed to address questions about marriage and human identity through the lens of Christian principles. The bishops have emphasized that any changes must honor Scripture and the Church’s longstanding doctrine.
Quoting the letter from the House of Bishops: “We believe we have fulfilled, albeit imperfectly, the February 2023 General Synod motion as best we can given the range of views across the Church of England, including replacing Issues in Human Sexuality after the July 2025 Synod motion, without departing from or indicating any departure from the Church’s doctrine of marriage.”
The bishops reaffirmed that unity, proper process, and faithfulness to the Christian calling are essential as the Church discerns its path forward. The Faith and Order Commission will provide further theological input on questions of alternative oversight for those holding to biblical teaching on marriage.
Bishop Philip Mounstephen said: “I’m aware that the process of LLF has been very fraught and I’m sorry that it has caused both pain and some anger amongst many.”
Bishop Philip North added: “After a great deal of praying and reflecting together, the House of Bishops has agreed that we want to avoid fragmentation and travel together as one Body for the sake of our mission to the nation.”
The coming years will demand steadfast prayer and discernment, seeking to uphold biblical values while serving those in the church with compassion. Let us pray for wisdom and courage for all leaders as they shape the next chapter for the Church of England. Stay informed and uphold Christ-centered marriages and families in prayer.