Church of England overwhelmingly votes in favor of trans initiation ceremonies

The Church of England’s governing body, the General Synod, voted overwhelmingly in favor of transgender ceremonies marking their new identity after transition.

Bishops voted 30 to two in favour, while 127 lay members voted for and 48 against, and clergy backed the motion 127 to 28.

Reverend Chris Newlands introduced the proposal after consultation with trans members of the church.

After wrapping up the final day of the four day-long General Synod, Chris Newlands introduced the proposal, told Gay Star News: ‘Trans people are wonderfully made and beautifully loved by God.

‘Thank God the church is beginning to accept reality and catch up.

‘Gender dysphoria is real, it matters and we’re going to work with transgender people to support them through all of this.

‘The motion asks the bishops of the Church of England to consider introducing prayers, resources or liturgy to welcome and affirm trans people who want something to mark their transition,’ he said.

Newlands believes it’s a great first step, but there’s still so much more to do. The Church has a ‘bad history’ with trans people.

He purposefully made the proposal simple so that it was achievable.

‘We could’ve done a lot more, but I think this is the first thing to do,’ he said.

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