Bishop Michael Ingham issued a rite of blessing of people in committed same sex unions on May 23, 2003. This was done in response to a request by the Diocesan Synod in June, 2002.

The bishop stated that the rite was a blessing of permanent and faithful commitments between persons of the same sex in order that they might have the support and encouragement of the church in their lives under God. He said it was not a marriage ceremony, or similar in form to one.

He stated that couples who seek the blessing must receive preparation and instruction, and be supported and sustained by the parish throughout their lives together.

Initially, six parishes in the diocese voted to be places where same sex blessings may be carried out. They were St. Margaret's, St. Mark's, St. Paul's, and Christ Church Cathedral, all in Vancouver; St. Agnes, North Vancouver; and St. Laurence, Coquitlam. The blessing also required the consent of the priest involved.

Once the parish has been designated a place of blessing, and the priest agrees to perform it, no further approval is required. The first ceremony took place on May 28 with the blessing of the relationship of two male members of St. Margaret's parish who had been together for 21 years.