In referring to the fact that there is no current bar to ordination for someone who might be in a close relationship with a member of the same sex, the Bishops were simply stating the present position as it applies in Scotland where, unlike some other provinces, no motion discouraging such ordinations has ever been passed by our General Synod. Consequently, the statement earlier this month does not represent any change in policy on the part of the Bishops.

END

It should not need saying, but it must be said: our Christian faith is a faith in the rising of Jesus Christ from the tomb in his glorified body; and so it is about leading lives that take the life of the body seriously. The words for 'salvation' and 'health' cannot be distinguished in most languages, and this should remind us that faith in Christ has to be bound up with care for suffering bodies as well as suffering souls.

The C of E will ordain homosexuals only if they are not in a physical relationship. Rowan Williams, archbishop of Canterbury and communion head, has warned that those who take risks over the ordination of homosexuals must face the consequences.

One leading Episcopalian, Nancy Adams, a church committee convener, said it was aligned with Canada and North America in terms of welcoming and embracing the gay and lesbian community.

"Unfortunately, Uniting Church national leaders don't seem too concerned," Chairperson of the Reforming Alliance, Rev Dr Max Champion, said. "If there were such unrest in a multinational corporation or a political party they would be the first to demand explanations and reform.