MEMBERS OF Dursley Tabernacle have voted to register the church to host same sex marriages. 

There was an 88 per cent majority in favour of the move at the vote on Sunday, November 24. 

Dursley Tabernacle’s minister Revd Simon Helme says this is a 'strong message' and it 'showed a clear desire for change'. 

He said: "This is a strong message that we want our church to be known as both a welcoming and affirming congregation for all people.

"We have spent months listening carefully, reading scripture, understanding science and our developing understanding of marriage and sexuality, discerning what it is Jesus wants us to do in this world and community.

"The vote was empathic and showed a clear desire for change.

"Weddings are a joyful occasion where people come to church to commit to one another before God and friends and family.

"We look forward to extending that joy and blessing to same sex couples in the future.

"We recognise the pain and rejection many gay and lesbian people have felt by the church over the years.

"We hope our decision will be a step to heal that hurt and build an inclusive church which truly believes that God loves everyone.

"I want to pay tribute to the gracious way this sensitive and in some cases personal issue has been considered.

"Whatever our individual positions we remain united in the bond of faith and our commitment to lead lives guided and inspired by Jesus, reflecting his love for everyone."