Gay couples who seek spiritual affirmation of their relationships can now sanctify their unions with special blessings at South Florida's Episcopal churches.

Priests in the Episcopal Diocese of Southeast Florida have been given permission to perform a distinct rite, different from the marriage between a man and a woman. Called "The Witnessing and Blessing of a Lifelong Covenant," the ceremony, to be introduced this month, was approved by national convention delegates over the summer.

South Florida's Episcopal priests had been performing a locally approved liturgy for the past two years for couples who have been married in other states, Bishop Leo Frade said. Florida law does not recognize same-sex marriages.

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Filed under: * Anglican - Episcopal • Episcopal Church (TEC) • General Convention • --Gen. Con. 2012 • TEC Parishes • Sexuality Debate (in Anglican Communion) • Same-sex blessings • * Christian Life / Church Life • Liturgy, Music, Worship • Parish Ministry • Ministry of the Ordained • * Theology • Anthropology • Ethics / Moral Theology • Theology: Scripture

1. Br. Michael wrote: No.  They can pretend to sanctify, but the church has no authority to bless what God as plainly called sin. December 4, 7:47 am | [comment link]

2. Stefano wrote: Having this Diocese led by Leo Frade, it is disheartening to see someone who was introduced to me as a champion of good news only to see him let brokeness be accomodated instead of healing promulgated. December 4, 10:53 am | [comment link]

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