“I’m getting so many messages from trans friends around the world. “Synod has changed – we have turned a corner. Since the February decision on sexuality, bishops have realised they cannot continue to do what they have always done.” He was referring to an amendment to his motion that asked for the Church to determine the theological arguments before any liturgy – or Church customs – are adopted.
Lay member Tim Hind, who spoke in support of transgender people, said the amendment was a “long-grass motion amendment” which would make the church look “foolish”. All three houses of the Synod rejected the amendment proposed by Dr Nick Land of the Diocese of York. During the debate, the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, said: “The theology needs to be done but that can be done very quickly … let’s vote for it.”
Mr Newlands said efforts still needed to be made to convince those who opposed his call. He said: “There’s clearly work to do. Nothing is really going to be unanimous. “We have got to listen to the young people who are going to be the future leaders of our church.” Rev Dr Christina Beardsley, a former hospital chaplain and campaigner for trans rights in the Church, hailed the decision as “wonderful”.
Dr Beardsley, 65, who drew scorn from some Church leaders during her transition into a woman in 2001, said: “It’s going to send the right signal.
“People have spoken very movingly about people’s stories – that’s what the Church is here to do, to show that love. “Let’s hope this is a sea change within the Church culture.”
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