Row as bishop reveals he’s gay
A leading Christian group has described the appointment of the Bishop of Grantham a “major error” – after he said he was gay.
Nicholas Chamberlain was consecrated by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby – who has said he knew about the bishop’s sexuality but it is irrelevant to his job.
The bishop said his relationship with his longterm male partner is not a secret – but the pair are celibate.
But Gafcon – a group which unites conservative Anglicans around the world – said the decision was “a serious cause for concern”.
A statement said: “There a re a spe ct s of thi s appointment which are a serious cause for concern for biblical ly orthodox Anglicans around the world, and therefore we believe that this appointment is a major error.”
Bishop Chamberlain admitted his revelation would cause “ripples” in the church but said: “It was not my decision to make a big thing about coming out.
“Sexuality is part of who I am, but it’s my ministry that I want to focus on.”
Justin Welby said: “I am and have been fully aware of Bishop Nick’s long-term, committed relationship. His appointment as Bishop of Grantham was made on the basis of his skills and calling to serve the church in the diocese of Lincoln.
“He l ives within the bishops’ guidelines and his sexual ity is completely irrelevant to his office.”