The Presbyterian Church in Canada affirms that people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are equally beloved by God. Following years of study and listening to stories of people who have been affected by homophobia and transphobia in the denomination, the church is on a path of repentance. In 2022, the church adopted a Confession to God and LGBTQI People, acknowledging the harm it has caused and committing the whole church to a true change of heart and behaviour.
Earlier, in 2021, The Presbyterian Church in Canada agreed to make changes to its understanding of marriage, recognizing that people may define marriage as either a covenant relationship between a man and a woman or a covenant relationship between two adults. These decisions provide Presbyterian ministers with liberty of conscience and the freedom to choose to officiate or not officiate at the marriages of same-sex couples. Additionally, the church agreed that LGBTQI people (whether married or single) can be ordained and are welcome to serve as ministers and ruling elders.
The Life and Mission Agency provides resources to assist the denomination in reviewing and updating its policies, practices and procedures to reflect the inclusion of people of all genders and sexual orientations. The pages below provide links to Resources for ministries related to policy review, facilitating conversations about gender and sexuality, pastoral care, decisions and statements the church has made regarding sexuality, marriage and ordination, and information about how those who have experienced harm can access support for healing. If you have any questions or would like to request further resources, contact Carragh Erhardt, Program Coordinator – Sexuality and Inclusion.
