BACKGROUND EFFORTS TO HIJACK C OF E MARRIAGE | REVD DR IAN PAUL

In this candid and timely discussion, I speak with the Reverend Dr Ian Paul, a long-time friend of C4M and respected member of the Church of England’s Archbishops’ Council. His influential blog is essential reading for anyone seriously engaged with the Church’s current debates on marriage and doctrine. Ian reveals how some are taking advantage of the ongoing delay in appointing a new Archbishop of Canterbury to push forward the contentious Living in Love and Faith (LLF) agenda. I encourage you to watch the full interview online for his compelling insights.
Ian offers a precise analysis of the LLF process, highlighting its current “hiatus” which, he warns, is being used by some to quietly advance a problematic agenda behind the scenes, with further developments expected in early 2026. He is notably critical of a recent bishop-led video that seeks a broader interpretation of Church teachings. Ian states unequivocally: “Our task isn’t to create as broad a church as possible, our task is to form a faithful Church that follows the teaching of Jesus.”
Central to Ian’s argument is the essential need for doctrinal consistency. He firmly cautions that attempts to alter pastoral practices without officially revising doctrine lead only to confusion and discontent. Some bishops suggest clergy might disregard traditional teachings, but Ian pointedly asks, how do you “turn a blind eye to clergy entering same-sex marriages if the doctrine of the Church is that according to the teaching of Jesus marriage is a lifelong union between one man and one woman?”
Ian also addresses a concerning development – a private member’s motion set to be discussed at the July Synod, proposing to remove existing expectations regarding the private lives of clergy. He warns that such moves risk bypassing due process and undermining accountability, potentially setting a troubling precedent for the Church’s standards.
Additionally, Ian emphasises the need for decisive leadership. He states clearly: “We really could do with one or two more bishops standing up and saying enough’s enough.” He highlights that these ongoing debates distract from the Church’s core mission – “growing churches, planting churches, sharing the good news of Jesus.” Churches that are clearly presenting a positive, biblical vision of marriage particularly appeal to younger generations who are disillusioned with contemporary cultural confusion.
On selecting the next Archbishop of Canterbury, Ian passionately calls for a return to strong pastoral leadership, clear Gospel proclamation, and unwavering adherence to biblical teaching. “We just want an archbishop who believes the teaching of the Church and the teaching of Jesus,” he insists.
At C4M, we remain committed to promoting the truth and beauty of real marriage as the lifelong union between one man and one woman. Your commitment helps facilitate these critical conversations, reinforcing the foundation of healthy families and a thriving society.