In 2013 the General Synod passed the following resolution: That this General Synod direct the Council of General Synod to prepare and present a motion at General Synod 2016 to change Canon XXI on Marriage to allow the marriage of same sex couples in the same way as opposite sex couples, and that this motion should include a conscience clause so that no member of the clergy, bishop, congregation or diocese should be constrained to participate in or authorize such marriages against the dictates of their conscience.
This motion will also include supporting documentation that:
a) demonstrates broad consultation in its preparation;
b) explains how this motion does not contravene the Solemn Declaration;
c) confirms immunity under civil law and the Human Rights Code for those bishops,
dioceses and priests who refuse to participate in or authorize the marriage of
same-sex couples on the basis of conscience;
d) provides a biblical and theological rationale for this change in teaching on the
nature of Christian marriage.
In seeking to fulfill its mandate to demonstrate a “broad consultation,” the Commission on the Marriage Canon has invited submissions from members of the Anglican Church of Canada. To ensure the credibility of the Commission and the transparency of its work, all submissions will be posted on the national church’s website.
To date, the Commission has received a number of submissions, which are now available online.