wmk@ptsfa.UUCP (Bill Klein) (01/31/85)
In response to the feeling that it is the (Judeo-)Christian society that prevents same sex mariages (as it did in the previous century for Mormons who wanted multi-partner marriages) I would agree that such was in deed our past, but it need not be our future. Although they are still having sever problems with the technicalities of "non-standard" marriages you might be interested in the following excerpt from "The Parsonage News" (February 1985) "Celebrations and blessings for covenants, associations and other relationships Early in 1983, the Rt. Rev. William E. Swing, Episcopal Bishop of California, authorized the Diocessan Commission on Liturgical Renewal to consider what liturgical responsse might be appropriate to same-sex couples seeking the blessing of the Church on their commitment to each other. . . . As the work of the commission progressed, it became apparent that a rite was being developed that, while it clearly parallels much of the marriage rite, is in many ways quite distinct. 'The Celebration and Blessing of a Covenant in Love' is the result. . . . The commission earnestly hopes that those who deplore the project will at least respect the sincerity in undertaking it. They also hope that for those Christians whose needs are fulfilled by the rites they will consider these efforts worthy of them." More information on the rite and the Parsonage (an officially sponsered project of the Episcopal Diocese of California) can be obtained from: The Parsonage 555A Castro Street San Francisco, CA 94114 (415) 552-2909