Progressive Christianity and the Church of England: A Call for Change and Hope

The Church of England (C of E) has long been a cornerstone of British religious life, but its stance on LGBTQ+ issues continues to spark debate, disillusionment, and heartbreak. A recent article by Helen Berry in The Guardian sheds light on the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ clergy and their families, highlighting the urgent need for reform within the church. As progressive Christians, we must reflect on these challenges, honour the sacrifices of those who have fought for inclusion, and advocate for a more compassionate and Christ-like faith.

Berry shares the story of her friend, Rev. Capt. Katie Watson, a hospital chaplain whose life and ministry touched countless lives in Newcastle and the north-east of England. Katie’s funeral was a moment of profound grief but also a stark reminder of the Church of England’s ongoing discrimination. Her partner of nearly 20 years, Emily, stood alongside their two teenage children to honor Katie’s memory. Together, they had built a loving, faithful family that exemplified the best of Christian values. Yet, because of the church’s restrictions, Katie and Emily were unable to marry. Instead, they were limited to a civil partnership—a compromise that reflects the church’s refusal to fully embrace LGBTQ+ relationships.

This story is not unique. It is emblematic of the broader struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals within the Anglican communion. While some progress has been made—such as the 2023 General Synod’s decision to allow blessings for same-sex couples—these changes fall far short of true equality. Clergy are still prohibited from entering same-sex marriages, and the church’s teachings often frame LGBTQ+ identities as temptations to be resisted rather than as integral aspects of a person’s humanity. For many, this ongoing discrimination feels like a betrayal of the church’s core message of love and acceptance.

Berry’s reflections also highlight the personal cost of this exclusion. She recalls a time when same-sex partners had no legal rights in matters of inheritance, healthcare, or pensions—a reality that many LGBTQ+ Christians fought to change. Yet, despite these societal advancements, the church remains mired in outdated doctrines that alienate its members and erode its moral authority. For LGBTQ+ clergy like Katie and Emily, the cost of staying within the church has been immense, requiring them to sacrifice their own rights and recognition in the hope of changing the institution from within.

The consequences of this hypocrisy are becoming increasingly clear. Church attendance is declining, and many view the C of E as irrelevant or even harmful. Berry argues that the church’s obsession with controlling sexuality, coupled with its failure to address systemic issues like abuse scandals, has led to a loss of trust and credibility. For progressive Christians, this is a call to action. The church must embrace the radical inclusivity of Christ’s message, recognizing the worth and dignity of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or relationship status.

Yet, even in the face of these challenges, there is hope. Katie Watson’s life and ministry exemplified the love and devotion that should be at the heart of Christianity. Her work as a hospital chaplain brought comfort and healing to countless people, and her relationship with Emily was a testament to the power of love and faith. Their story reminds us that change is possible, even within institutions as entrenched as the Church of England. It is the courage and perseverance of individuals like Katie and Emily that pave the way for a more inclusive future.

As progressive Christians, we are called to continue this work. We must challenge the church to live up to its own teachings of love, redemption, and justice. We must amplify the voices of those who have been marginalized and demand that the church recognize the full humanity of LGBTQ+ individuals. And we must hold onto the hope that transformation is not only necessary but inevitable.

The Church of England is at a crossroads. It can choose to cling to outdated doctrines and continue its decline, or it can embrace the diversity and beauty of God’s creation, becoming a beacon of hope and inclusion for future generations. Katie’s legacy reminds us that love is stronger than fear, and faith is more powerful than prejudice. Her death is a call to action, but it is also a call to hope. The church may be slow to change, but the love and courage of people like Katie and Emily will endure—and it is this love that will ultimately transform the church and the world.

Let us move forward with faith, hope, and determination, knowing that the work of inclusion is holy work, and that the God of love is with us every step of the way.