We seek to walk the path that Jesus has modeled for the Church. We are challenged in many ways to become a more inclusive Church: one that welcomes all. As Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Michigan I am supportive of the blessing of same gender relationships. I am aware that the Episcopal Church has been in conversation and discernment for many years and with that journey there has been both joy and pain.

The Episcopal Church is on a continuous journey. At the most recent General Convention, the Episcopal Church commended the study and use of "Liturgical Resources: I Will Bless You and You Will be a Blessing" in congregations and Dioceses of the Episcopal Church. By this action, our Church has authorized the provisional use of "The Witnessing and Blessing of a Lifelong Covenant," from these resources, beginning the First Sunday of Advent 2012 (December 2nd).

This Diocese will soon begin working on a process to study and to use this liturgical resource for the blessing of same gender relationships. While these resources do not constitute a marriage rite in the state of Michigan, they are a pastoral response to those persons in same gender relationships who seek a blessing as they live in a lifelong covenanted relationship.

For information and questions, please contact us at trinitymackinac@gmail.com.