UK: House of Bishops defeats PMM on same-sex relationships

The Alliance I July 13, 2026

Today, the General Synod debated a Private Member’s Motion which, if it had passed, would have undermined the doctrine of marriage as the church has received it.

The amended motion stated that it is a legitimate theological perspective to believe that a committed, faithful, intimate same-sex relationship is entirely compatible with Christian discipleship and ministry. Whereas, only last year the House of Bishops affirmed that sexual intercourse, as an expression of faithful intimacy, properly belongs within marriage exclusively, and that the Church of England’s doctrine of marriage has not been altered.

Today, the amended motion passed in the House of Clergy and the House of Laity, but was thankfully defeated in the House of Bishops with voting as follows:

House of Bishops – For 11, Against 14, Abstentions 4

House of Clergy – For 93, Against 79, Abstentions 0

House of Laity – For 101, Against 83, Abstentions 0