In May of 2002, committed to ensuring that same sex couples who seek to be included in the Anglican Communion feel save and respected, but faced with continuing differences within the diocese, Bishop Michael Ingham attempted to craft a compromise proposal.

After consultation, he proposed that he would authorize the blessing but – aware of the diversity in the diocese - only with a series of safeguards. No person or parish need participate, and no one would be discriminated for or against because of their position regarding the blessing.

The bishop's proposal was introduced at the June 2002 Diocesan Synod and voted on. It passed by a vote of 215 to 129 (62.5 per cent), and the bishop gave consent.

Before the rite of blessing was issued, the bishop amended his “Expectations for All Clergy” to state formally that no cleric need participate in the blessing of same sex unions.

The diocese is an inclusive diocese. There are many varieties of opinion and position in theology, ecclesiology, and liturgy. A wide diversity of people is present within the diocese. The priest is expected to nurture and proper a healthy respect for and in all parts of our diocese, and to build unity.

Any priest or deacon holding or seeking the Bishop's license in this diocese, freely and without discrimination, may invoke the conscience clause applicable to the blessing of same-sex unions.

[The second paragraph above was added in August, 2002, by Bishop Michael Ingham.]