NYT: August 7, 2003

In an article in the New York Times at the close of the 2003 General Convention, it was noted that "prelates of the church tonight rejected a proposal to begin writing an official liturgy for the blessing of same-sex unions."

Those of us who were deputies in Minneapolis know that this is a carefully worded statement. Technically, no, the Episcopal Church would not officially sanction the blessing of same-sex unions. But ECUSA, and especially many of her bishops, would turn a blind eye to the rites taking place in their dioceses. And the number of blessings would greatly increase. Two openly gay men quoted in this article -- +Michael Hopkins and ++Otis Charles -- would have their unions blessed in the years to follow.

In retrospect, therefore, I read this comment from ++Gethin Hughes in a totally different way than I might have in 2003. Sounds like he is referring to a local-option policy, doesn't it?

'"This is best because those of you who have reached a further point of clarity can continue to do what you think is right in your area," said Bishop Gethin Hughes of the Diocese of San Diego. "For many of us who are still struggling," he said, there will be more time for sorting through the issues and coming to some answer together.'