Senior clergy in the Church of England called today to lift the ban on gay couples having civil partnerships in church. They said that it was inconsistent and discriminatory to ban gay couples having their ceremonies in churches willing to accommodate them.

Senior clergy in the Church of England called today to lift the ban on gay couples having civil partnerships in church. They said that it was inconsistent and discriminatory to ban gay couples having their ceremonies in churches willing to accommodate them.

The Church of England's General Synod yesterday voted to recognise the desire of dissident US conservative Anglicans to remain Anglicans. But it declined to promise to ally with or endorse the group, which opposes gay bishops and same-sex marriage.

The Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams apologised yesterday for statements he has made about gay people in the church. He said he was "profoundly sorry" for giving the impression of "ignoring or undervaluing" human realities.

The Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams apologised yesterday for statements he has made about gay people in the church. He said he was "profoundly sorry" for giving the impression of "ignoring or undervaluing" human realities.

Pope Benedict XVI has admitted in a speech that certain members of the church “violated rights” of children.

Pope Benedict XVI has admitted in a speech that certain members of the church “violated rights” of children.

Northern Ireland Bishop Pat Buckley has announced he will wed his boyfriend in a civil partnership ceremony next week.

Northern Ireland Bishop Pat Buckley has announced he will wed his boyfriend in a civil partnership ceremony next week.

Northern Ireland Bishop Pat Buckley has announced he will wed his boyfriend in a civil partnership ceremony next week.