Episcopal Clergy in Florida Can Now Perform Same-Sex Marriages Without Consulting Bishop
Permission had previously been required by Bishop John Howard, who recently resigned from ordained ministry. The Diocese of Florida is currently conducting a search for a new bishop.
JACKSONVILLE — The Episcopal Diocese of Florida has announced that its clergy may now marry same-sex couples without seeking prior approval from church leadership — a move diocesan officials say is a clarification of existing policy rather than a change, aimed at ensuring full conformity with Episcopal Church canons.
As reported by the Church Times, in a letter to congregations, the diocesan standing committee said the clarification affirms that any couple meeting the church’s canonical requirements “may not be denied access to the sacrament of Holy Matrimony … solely because of the sex or gender of the partners.” Under former Bishop John Howard, clergy were required to consult him before performing same-sex marriages.
The diocese has struggled for several years to elect a successor to Bishop Howard, whose retirement in 2023 was followed by two failed episcopal elections amid objections from clergy and lay delegates. A disciplinary case against Howard — focused on alleged discrimination against LGBTQ clergy and financial concerns — concluded last month without admission of guilt or disciplinary action. He subsequently requested release from ordained ministry.
The standing committee emphasized renewed commitments to a culture in which “all persons are treated with dignity and respect” and “those who experience abuse or discrimination find support and justice," saying that these standards “have not always been honored” in the diocese. Leaders also underscored respect for the region’s “rich theological diversity,” saying the clarifications are intended to uphold Episcopal Church canons while honoring individual clergy conscience.
A new bishop search is under way, with the diocese projecting a consecration in early 2027.
Previously, UOJ reported that the first LGBT "archbishopess" had been elected in the Anglican church.
