What is the Pilling Report, and why does it matter? The report, published this week, takes its name from Joe Pilling, the chair of the Church of England’s House of Bishops’ ‘Working Group on human sexuality’. It matters because of the findings and recommendations it makes. Sadly, there is a lack of confidence in what Scripture says about human sexuality, and in its abiding authority for the Church. Recommendation 16, for example, suggests that “… a priest, with the agreement of the relevant PCC, should be free to mark the formation of a permanent same sex relationship in a public service …”
I haven’t read the whole report, but I have read the dissenting statement by The Bishop of Birkenhead, a member of the Working Group, who feels he cannot sign the report. One of the reasons he is unable to support this particular recommendation is because it undermines those who are trying to live lives of self-denial out of loyalty to Christ (and so in obedience to Scripture). He quotes a friend who says, “Christians like me who experience same sex attraction need our Church to encourage us to stand firm against the pressures of the world, rather than providing an example of accommodation. I already feel isolated in the world, holding the position I take, and I fear that any change in the Church’s teaching would make me increasingly lonely in the Church as well.” Amen!