Church in Turmoil: Justin Welby’s Comments Spark Controversy Over Same-Sex Relationships
Former Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has come under fire for his recent comments on same-sex relationships, which many believe undermine biblical ethics. Speaking at the Cambridge Union, Welby said he was “thick” not to recognize that faithful and committed same-sex relationships are a “huge blessing”. This statement has sparked controversy within the Church of England, particularly at its current General Synod meeting in York. Rev Jonathan Ford, a retired member of the General Synod, criticized Welby’s comments, saying they risk dividing the church further on the issue.
The Church of England is already grappling with shaping a way forward on sexuality through its Living in Love and Faith (LLF) process. However, the issue won’t be debated in full at the General Synod meeting. Ford described the LLF process as a “holding exercise” due to the church’s lack of unity on the issue. “They can’t find a lead Bishop, and the bishops aren’t united on this in any shape, size, or form,” Ford said. Welby’s comments have added to the controversy, with many questioning whether biblical morality is still relevant.
Other issues on the agenda at the General Synod meeting include clergy pensions, stipends, and a redress scheme for abuse survivors. Ford suggested that the Church of England should hold a “year of national repent” over its failings, acknowledging that it has prioritized buildings and money over following Jesus. “If we just stood up and said: ‘We got this wrong, and we’re going to start living much more Christ-like lives, and we’re going to really make the Bible our authority’, I think people would stand up and applaud,” Ford said. Meanwhile, Welby’s resignation as Archbishop of Canterbury over abuse scandal has further complicated the church’s efforts to address these issues.
