The General Assembly of the Church of Scotland has voted to continue dialogue on same-sex relationships and the ministry following the Special Commission report today.<\/p>\n
After several hours of debate, commissioners voted by 351 to 294 to adopt deliverance 7B, which means a move towards the acceptance for training, induction and ordination of those in same-sex relationships for the ministry.<\/p>\n
The Assembly also voted to allow ministers and deacons in same-sex relationships ordained before 2009 to be inducted into pastoral charges by 393 to 252.<\/p>\n
A theological commission will be set up to bring recommendations to the 2013 General Assembly, as well as considering whether ministers should have freedom of conscience to bless civil partnerships and possible liturgy for such occasions.<\/p>\n
As nothing has been formally enacted, the proposals do not need to consult the Kirk\u2019s 46 presbyteries under the Barrier Act, but it does mark a significant departure from the Church\u2019s traditional teaching, as acknowledged by the Commission\u2019s report.<\/p>\n