Church Of England Considers Using Gender-Neutral Terms For God

The Church of England is considering the use of gender-neutral terms when referring to God in prayers. This comes after a priest asked about developing more inclusive language in worship when the Synod met in London. According to a spokesperson for the church, “Christians have recognized since ancient times that God is neither male nor female”. However, many of the ways of addressing and describing God that can be found in scripture have “not always been reflected” in worship. There are currently no plans to abolish or revise authorized services and changes cannot be made without “extensive legislation. Bishop Michael Ipgrave claims the church has been “exploring the use of gendered language in relation to God for several years”. This comes after the church said it wouldn't allow gay couples to get married in churches but would allow priests to bless them in church.