Chelmsford Cathedral will begin offering the Church of England’s Prayers of Love and Faith within its regular Services of the Word, following a decision by the Dean and Chapter. This liturgy is available for same-sex couples in civil partnerships or civil marriages, as well as those in covenanted friendships, who wish to give thanks for and mark their love in faith before God.
The prayers will be offered as part of the cathedral’s worship life, reflecting its commitment to pastoral inclusivity and spiritual support. This pastoral provision, which the Church of England’s House of Bishops commended in December 2023, has already been adopted by other cathedrals.
The Very Revd Dr Jessica Martin, Dean of Chelmsford, commented:
“We are deeply committed to ensuring Chelmsford Cathedral remains a place of spiritual welcome, where all who love one another can give thanks and receive pastoral prayer within our communal worship. This marks a meaningful step toward extending compassion, grace, and a sense of belonging to everyone within Chelmsford Cathedral”
Why is Chelmsford Cathedral offering Prayers of Love and Faith?
On 12 December 2023, the Church of England’s House of Bishops commended the Prayers of Love and Faith and associated pastoral guidance for use in regular public worship services with effect from Sunday 17 December 2023. Since this decision, Chelmsford Cathedral has, like every other Church of England cathedral and church, been free to choose whether to offer Prayers of Love and Faith.
Following discussion, Chelmsford Cathedral’s Dean and governing Chapter have decided to offer Prayers of Love and Faith.
How can I enquire about Prayers of Love and Faith at Chelmsford Cathedral?
Couples who are part of the Cathedral community and who are interested in being offered Prayers of Love and Faith at Chelmsford Cathedral can enquire by speaking with a member of the clergy.
At which services can Prayers of Love and Faith be offered?
These prayers can be offered within the Cathedral’s regular services of public worship on Sundays or weekdays.
Which Prayers of Love and Faith will be used?
The Prayers of Love and Faith resources offer a number of prayers that can be used. The couple, in discussion with a member of our clergy, will decide which of these they would like to be offered.
Can opposite-sex couples be offered Prayers of Love and Faith at Chelmsford Cathedral?
The Prayers of Love and Faith were designed specifically for same-sex couples, for whom no other provision is currently made, however; if an opposite-sex couple who are part of our Cathedral community are interested in being offered Prayers of Love and Faith, our clergy will be happy to discuss this with them.