In a BBC video interview in advance of his inauguration as Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev. Justin Welby discusses his evolving views on same-sex relationships.
Some gay couples have loving, stable and monogamous relationships of “stunning” quality, the Archbishop of Canterbury has acknowledged.
The Most Reverend Justin Welby told the BBC he had “particular friends where I recognise that and am deeply challenged by it”.
But he said he still supported the Church of England’s formal opposition to active homosexuality.
At the same link, BBC also reports that Pope Francis, whose inauguration Mass was on Tuesday, has sent a goodwill message to Archbishop Welby:
“Please be assured of my prayers as you take up your new responsibilities, and I ask you to pray for me as I respond to the new call that the Lord has addressed to me,” said Pope Francis.
“I look forward to meeting you in the near future, and to continuing the warm fraternal relations that our predecessors enjoyed.”
Read BBC’s story here. BBC’s live coverage of Welby’s enthronement begins at 2:30 p.m. GMT. The service begins at 3 p.m. GMT (11 a.m. EST).