THE diocese of Florida has announced that its clergy can now marry same-sex couples without seeking episcopal permission, as part of a process “smoothing” the way for the election of its new diocesan Bishop.
In a letter to congregations, the diocesan standing committee said the announcement was a “clarification”, not a change in policy, and would ensure that the diocese complied with the canons of the Episcopal Church, “which take precedence over diocesan affairs when they conflict”.
Under the previous diocesan Bishop, the Rt Revd John Howard, clergy who wanted to marry same-sex couples had to consult him first.
But the clarification issued by the standing committee says: “If a couple meets the canonical requirements for marriage in The Episcopal Church, they may not be denied access to the sacrament of Holy Matrimony in the Diocese of Florida solely because of the sex or gender of the partners.”
The diocese has had a few troubled years while it has attempted to appoint a successor to Bishop Howard, who retired in October 2023. Two elections failed after being blocked by objections from some clergy and lay leaders (News, 28 July 2023).
A disciplinary case against Bishop Howard — who faced complaints of discrimination against lesbian and gay clergy, as well as a separate complaint about financial proprieties — concluded last month without an admission of guilt on his part or any disciplinary action. The Bishop requested his release from ordained ministry after the agreement. The Presiding Bishop of the United States, the Most Revd Sean Rowe, said the agreement was reached to spare the diocese more pain and cost (News, 7 October).
The standing committee’s letter also reminded congregations that the diocese was committed to a culture in which “all persons are treated with dignity and respect” and “those who experience abuse or discrimination find support and justice.”
It reiterated that Church-wide canons forbade discrimination and abuse of power regarding the rights of laity, diocesan employment, and the appointment and licensing of priests. The lett continued: “We realize this commitment to non-discrimination has not always been honored in this diocese.
“We recognize that our diocese encompasses a rich theological diversity, and we give thanks for the faithful witness of clergy across the theological spectrum. These canonical clarifications are not meant to diminish that diversity but to ensure that we live within the constitutional and canonical framework of the Episcopal Church while honoring the conscience of individual clergy.
“As we move toward the election of our new bishop, healing and reconciliation in the Diocese of Florida remains one of our top priorities as your Standing Committee.”
Another search for a diocesan bishop is now under way. A timeline published by the standing committee suggests that a consecration is planned for early 2027.