Florida diocese clarifies marriage equality stance ahead of 2026 bishop election
The Diocese of Florida has issued a statement reaffirming its stance against discrimination in marriage. Released during an ongoing bishop search, the clarification aims to address past shortcomings before the next election in September 2026. The move follows years of gradual change since the retirement of Bishop John Howard in 2023.
The Standing Committee’s announcement underscores that no couple can be denied the sacrament of Holy Matrimony based on sex or gender. This position aligns with existing churchwide canons, which prohibit discrimination and abuse of power. The committee also acknowledged past failures to uphold these principles fully.
Under Bishop Howard, clergy had to seek his approval before marrying same-sex couples. That requirement ended with his retirement in 2023, shifting decision-making to individual clergy. Now, priests have full discretion over which marriages to perform in their churches.
The statement is not a policy shift but a formal clarification of practices already in place. Some congregational leaders have welcomed the move, expressing hope that it will influence the selection of a more inclusive bishop. The diocese has emphasised healing and reconciliation as priorities ahead of the 2026 election.
The diocese’s clarification removes ambiguity around marriage equality while preparing for new leadership. Clergy no longer need episcopal permission for same-sex weddings, and couples cannot be turned away on the basis of gender. The focus now turns to ensuring these standards guide the next bishop’s term.
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