Gay couples will be allowed to hold civil partnership ceremonies in English and Welsh churches, as long as the churches agree. Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone says no religious group would be forced to host them, but those who wished to could apply by the end of the year. "The government is advancing equality for lgb people and ensuring freedom of religion for people of all faiths,” she says. "No religious group will be forced to host a civil partnership registration, but for those who wish to do so this is an important step forward." The Church of England has told BBC it has "no intention" of blessing gay couples and the Roman Catholic Church is expected to take the same stance. The legislation will also cover synagogues and mosques, although gay relationships are forbidden under Islam and Orthodox Judaism.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Thursday, 3rd November 2011 - 10:44am