The Diocese of Albany continues to be committed to bring all persons into a reconciling relationship with Jesus Christ. The Albany Diocesan marriage canon remains and is a teaching of the diocese. The Standing Committee authorized Assisting Bishop Michael Smith to establish on our behalf a letter of agreement for Supplemental Episcopal Pastoral Support as set forth in resolution 2018-B012. Waivers of the diocesan marriage canon may be provided for clergy desiring to offer same sex marriage rites from their churches.
Bp Smith has developed a collegial relationship with Bp Carol Gallagher and the two have previously ministered together in similar partnership . The Standing Committee has given approval for Bp Gallagher to serve in partnership with Bp Smith to provide Supplemental Episcopal Pastoral Support in the Diocese of Albany. We thank Bp Gallagher in accepting this new ministry opportunity to serve the Diocese.
Clergy who desire to offer same sex marriage rites from their churches, must follow the process as set forth in the communique issued on November 1, 2021, which can be found by clicking here.
