Good God!

Sexuality and Gender Equality in the Church

Impossibility or Imperative?

An event organised by St Mark’s Church, Broomfield Road, Sheffield, S10 2SE

This is a day for those who want to see change within the Church of England. It is an opportunity to spend time together exploring how we can develop a strongly positive theological voice in these areas.

Our lead speaker is Andrew Foreshew-Cain (chaplain of Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford) one of the voices behind “Equal”, the campaign calling for an end to the church’s ban on same-sex weddings. Sue Hammersley (Vicar of St Mark’s) will offer some opening theological reflections.

You will have the opportunity to participate in one or two of the following Workshops:

What is gender? led by Lu Skerratt and Frances Gray: This interactive session will explore what we mean by gender, gender identity, and how we live as Christians in a gendered world.

Relationship ethics, led by Imogen Clout: We will look at a variety of issues which may include: What constitutes sexual ethics? Are all relationships equal? What relationships are appropriate in a changing context?

What does scripture say? led by Janet Morley: We will explore several different ways of approaching scripture to find out what it ‘says’ about contemporary issues, then looking at particular passages in detail. Please bring a bible for this workshop.

The politics of power, led by Jeremy Clines: First, Jeremy offers a deconstruction of how Church continues to oppress. Second is a facilitated conversation on needed changes for liberation in ecclesial structures.

Equal Opportunities? led by Andrew Foreshew-Cain and Rosalind Rutherford: In what  ways are the experiences of women in the C of E, and LGBTI+ people similar, and where are there are significant differences? What are key (campaigning) issues at the moment?

Register for the event via the Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/good-god-sexuality-gender-justice-in-the-church-tickets-61485780625