The Church of England’s General Synod will proceed with a contentious fringe event despite significant opposition from within its ranks. The event, titled “People Change: Sexual Identity Transformation,” is set to feature speakers like Matthew Grech, who was recently acquitted in Malta of charges related to promoting conversion practices, and Mike Davidson, head of the International Foundation for Therapeutic and Counselling Choice (IFTCC).
Fringe events, independent of official Synod activities, often stir debate, and this one is no exception. Critics, including the openly gay Rev Dr Charlie Bączyk-Bell, have expressed outrage, labeling the event as “trash” in a public post. In response to the backlash, many within the church urged the Archbishops of Canterbury and York to use their powers to cancel the event, citing concerns over safeguarding and alignment with the Church’s ethos.
Despite these appeals, the event will go ahead, although a planned exhibition stand has been blocked. A spokesperson for the Church of England stated, “A General Synod member has applied to host a Synod fringe meeting and related public display on ‘sexual identity transformation’… Following careful consideration, The Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of York have informed the Synod member that their fringe meeting… may go ahead as planned but has declined permission for the associated stand and public display.”
Christian Concern, whose CEO Andrea Williams will also speak at the event, criticized the Archbishops’ initial threat to cancel the event. Williams remarked, “To threaten cancellation… gives the clear impression that intimidation and activist pressure are being allowed to dictate what Christians may hear, say and discuss at General Synod.” She further emphasized the importance of hearing testimonies like that of Matthew Grech, who faced legal challenges in Malta for sharing his story.
Event organizer Rebecca Hunt defended the inclusion of ex-gay Christians in the discussion, arguing it is crucial for the Church to understand various forms of pastoral support. She stated, “There is a great need for the Church to understand what kinds of pastoral support and counselling are helpful.” Hunt insisted that the event’s content does not pose a safeguarding risk and should not be censored.
The controversy unfolds as the UK government advances plans to ban conversion therapy, a move supported by the Church of England in principle but not without reservation. The Bishop of Leicester, Martyn Snow, has raised concerns about the clarity of the proposed legislation, especially regarding the distinction between harmful practices and legitimate spiritual care. In a statement, Snow expressed his worries about the potential impact on faith groups.
Amid these discussions, the Synod is also set to consider a motion affirming that committed same-sex relationships can be compatible with Christian discipleship, highlighting ongoing debates within the Church about sexuality and doctrine.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
