Bishop Jonathan Baker's Announcement of Marriage

Statement from the Council of Bishops

None of the bishops of The Society underestimates the searing grief that accompanies the breakdown of a marriage:  many of us have shared this grief within our own families.  The news that following divorce Bishop Jonathan Baker is to marry in a civil ceremony followed by a service of thanksgiving and dedication in church should draw the assurance of prayers from everyone, including from those who will be bewildered and unsettled by it.

Bishop Jonathan has diligently sought the permissions that the Church of England requires for him to marry again.  The Bishops of the Society reaffirm their commitment both to the Church's teaching on Christian marriage as a sacramental sign, and to the need for pastoral sensitivity and care both for those who are married and for those whose marriages fail.

Bishop Jonathan has been assured of our prayers.

On behalf of the Council of Bishops

+ TONY PONTEFRACT
The Rt Revd Tony Robinson
Chairman