Diocese of Toronto
Church of the Redeemer
A Memorial to General Synod
The Church of the Redeemer has embraced the dialogue of same sex blessings for many years. Our discussions and work have formed the very foundation of our core values as an Anglican Church. It is important for us to continue the conversation that has helped to form us. Further, we acknowledge with gratitude that our common life has been blessed by the Christian witness of our diverse community.
Therefore, the parish of Church of the Redeemer, Diocese of Toronto:
- affirms its commitment to the membership of the Anglican Church of Canada as part of the Anglican Communion;
- affirms the tradition of the autonomy of the Anglican Church of Canada in taking decisions that are consistent with its constitution and canons;
- calls on the General Synod to take steps to ensure that both the above principles are honoured in international conversations within the Communion;
- calls on General Synod to review critically the concepts of 'Instruments of Communion' and 'Covenant' as they impact on both communion and autonomy;
- and urges the General Synod to consider the issue of the blessing of same sex unions as put forward in the tabled motion of General Synod 2004: That this General Synod affirm the authority and jurisdiction of any diocesan synod, with the concurrence of its bishop, to authorize the blessing of same sex unions.
This memorial was passed by unanimous decision at a special vestry on May 28th, 2007.