Church of England bishops have decided to take more time before finalising proposals on same-sex blessings and clergy marriage rules, following continued disagreement across the Church. Meeting at Lambeth Palace, they did not reject the Living in Love and Faith (LLF) proposals but agreed that further reflection was needed before presenting a final position. The LLF process has been examining questions of identity, sexuality, relationships, and marriage for several years and remains one of the most sensitive issues facing the Church. In a statement, the Church acknowledged the deep hurt felt by many, particularly among LGBTQI+ people, while also recognising the strong convictions held across the Anglican spectrum. Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell said that although delay may add to frustration, taking proper care and time is necessary given the pastoral and theological weight of the decisions involved. The bishops are expected to revisit the matter in January, with proposals anticipated at General Synod in February. Campaigners seeking greater inclusion have criticised the continued delay as painful, while others believe further discernment is essential to preserve unity, faithfulness to Scripture, and trust across the Church.

The Church of England’s eight-year-long Living in Love and Faith (LLF) process, aimed at reaching unity on same-sex relationships, has drawn fierce criticism from across the spectrum following new decisions by the House of Bishops. The bishops agreed to further synodical discussions on formal blessings for same-sex couples and on whether clergy may enter same-sex marriages. Critics say the Church is more divided than ever. Rev Joshua Penduck called the process 'needlessly painful,' leaving both conservatives and LGBTQ+ believers 'weary and vulnerable’. The deans of Canterbury and Southwark expressed deep disappointment; David Monteith said he feels 'marginal and uncatered for’, and Mark Oakley confessed, 'In thirty years of ministry, I haven’t recognised myself in these debates’. Bishop Martyn Snow, who previously led LLF, acknowledged mistakes but defended the process as an effort to model love amid disagreement. He urged the Church to rediscover grace and humility in navigating these deep divisions.