The Church of England has published a landmark set of resources drawing together the Bible, theology, science and history with powerful real-life stories as it embarks on a new process of discernment and decision-making on questions of identity, sexuality, relationships and marriage.
It comes as the House of Bishops issues an appeal to the whole Church of England to participate in learning together, using the resources for open, honest and gracious discussion, listening and learning.
A group of bishops, chaired by the Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally, will lead the process of discernment and decision-making about a way forward for the church in relation to human identity, sexuality, relationships and marriage.
HOW TO USE THE RESOURCES
It is anticipated that the period of church-wide learning and engagement will take place during 2021. To register to explore the resources, please visit the Living in Love and Faith Learning Hub.
Churches are encouraged to study and engage with the wide range of resources available. These include a five-session online course, a suite of films, podcasts and journals, and a book. Churches can engage in small groups, as a PCC, and at deanery or other level. It is hoped that as people engage with the resources they will encounter different experiences and opinions and listen respectfully to one another.
The House of Bishops will then bring the discernment and decision-making to a timely conclusion in 2022 which will be put before Synod.