The Lambeth Conference,gender and sexuality

Abstract

On the basis of the Lambeth Conference resolutions, this article traces discussions of marriage and divorce, polygamy, contraception and sexual relationships, the role of women and homosexuality and same-sex relationships at the Lambeth Conferences from 1888 to 1998. It demonstrates a growing awareness among the Anglican bishops of the role of culture in defining approaches to human sexuality and marriage, and of the complex reality of human relationships. As the bishops’ understanding changed and developed, they sometimes confirmed, but often amended, the responses of Lambeth Conferences.