Nigerian Anglicans Threaten Split from Church of England Over Gay Marriage Approval

The Nigerian Anglican Church has issued a stern warning of a potential split from the Church of England following the latter’s decision to approve gay marriage.

The Church of Nigeria, one of the largest entities within the Anglican Communion, condemned the decision as a violation of biblical teachings and declared it would no longer recognize the Church of England’s authority if the move proceeds.

The Church of England’s General Synod narrowly voted to approve same-sex marriage, with the House of Laity voting 95 to 91 in favor and the House of Clergy voting 99 to 88 in favor. While the decision was celebrated by LGBTQ+ advocates, it provoked significant backlash from conservative Anglicans.

The Nigerian Anglicans’ statement on the approval by the Church of England

In a statement titled “Church Of Nigeria Response To The Approval of The Living In Love And Faith Liturgy By The Church of England,” Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, Primate of the Church of Nigeria, highlighted the gravity of the situation. He warned that the decision could lead to a “broken sacramental communion” between the two churches.

“Should the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Church of England proceed to give effect to the Approval of the Living in Love and Faith Liturgy and allow their Clergy to engage in same-sex marriage, the Church of England risks the danger of a Broken Sacramental Communion with the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and other Faithful Anglican Provinces,” Ndukuba stated.

He further emphasized the potential jeopardy to the Anglican Communion’s future, commending those within the communion who have stood by biblical teachings. “In light of this, we commend the Bishops, Clergy, and Laity who have opted to stand for the Scripture as the authority and guide of the Church in Doctrine, Worship, and Living,” he said.

The Nigerian Anglicans has long been a vocal opponent of same-sex marriage and has previously threatened to break away over this issue. The latest announcement signifies a significant escalation in the ongoing rift between conservative and liberal factions within the Anglican Communion.

Archbishop Ndukuba reaffirmed the Church of Nigeria’s commitment to upholding biblical teachings and supporting like-minded Anglicans through various bodies, including GAFCON, GSFA, CEEC, the Alliance, and others. “Ultimately, the Church of Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to abide by the Truth, as stated in John 8:32, standing in solidarity with those courageous and faithful Anglicans who have challenged this evil during the debates and discussions at the Synod,” he concluded.