The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement (LGCM) 26 September 2003

The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement (LGCM) welcome in principle the initiative announced this week by the Bishop of Manchester  (Rt Rev Nigel McCulloch) to set up an Advisory Group on Gay Issues in his diocese.

LGCM awaits with interest publication of the details of the terms of reference and membership of the group.

LGCM believes that the effectiveness of the Group will be determined by how well it is resourced and how far it helps the Bishop and the Diocese to:

• Restore trust between the gay community and the diocese which has been damaged by the action of the Bishop and the Cathedral in withdrawing permission for the LGCM 'Halfway to Lambeth' Conference Service;
• Encourage free, fair, quiet and prayerful discussion of the issues of human sexuality in the diocese;
• Foster inclusiveness and respect for difference;
• Address Christian fundamentalism and the ways in which it undergirds homophobia in the Church;
• Enable gay clergy, including those in relationships, to live openly and without fear;

"We hope that the Group will foster a close working relationship with National LGCM" said Rev Richard Kirker today "based on recognised standards of good practice. Once we have seen the terms of reference and been given an opportunity to advise on the membership of the Group LGCM will be in a position to comment more fully on this initiative."

ENDS

26 September, 2003

 

For further information please contact:

Richard Kirker (London & National) 020 7739 1249

Ian Stubbs (Manchester) 07712 451710

Details of the Halfway to Lambeth Conference are obtainable at http://www.lgcm.org.uk/halfwaytolambeth/default.htm.