NZ Anglicans to bless same-sex unions

NEW PLYMOUTH, New Zealand — The Anglican Church of New Zealand has paved the way for the blessing of same gender relationships.

The church’s governing body, the General Synod/Te Hinota Whanui, approved an amendment to church policy that would “create a framework to allow for individual clergy to be authorised (sic) to conduct services blessing same-sex relationships.” The changes also would protect clergy and bishops who authorize or refuse to authorize those services of blessing. The vote was reported by the Anglican Taonga, the news agency of Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia. (TAB)