CHURCH of Ireland may accept gay marriage - Harper

CHURCH of Ireland Primate Alan Harper has reignited a simmering controversy after suggesting that scientific breakthroughs may mean homosexual relationships are sanctioned by the Church.

Archbishop Harper said that if it can be biologically proven that homosexuality is natural then the Church must reconsider "what may be a new status for homosexual relationships".

The row follows hot on the heels of the recent controversy in which DUP MP Iris Robinson said that homosexuality was sinful and "an abomination".

Archbishop Harper called for Anglicans around the world to return to the core principles of the faith in order to resolve the controversy over gay marriages.

Addressing the Anglicans in World Mission conference in Swanwick, England, Archbishop Harper said if evidence came to light that homosexuality is biologically predetermined then the Church would have to reflect that fact.

Concluding his speech, the Archbishop said: "It has not yet been conclusively shown that for some males and some females homosexuality and homosexual acts are natural rather than unnatural.

"If such comes to be shown, it will be necessary to acknowledge the full implications of that new aspect of the truth, and that insight applied to establish and acknowledge what may be a new status for homosexual relationships within the church."

C of I may accept gay marriage – Harper
Belfast Newsletter - Belfast,UK