Here are two explanatory documents about the marriage canons written by the Rev. Matthew Olver, Ph.D. who is a diocesan priest and professor at Nashotah House. The primary document can be downloaded with the link below and an abbreviated version is below the link. 

Download full version by clicking here.

Below is a two-page overview

Overview

The Episcopal Church today holds two teachings on marriage, both officially permitted yet theologically contradictory. This situation, which is unique among Anglican provinces, reflects a deliberate decision by the Church to allow “mutual flourishing” between differing convictions, much like the Church of England’s approach to women’s ordination.

Background

Over the past twenty years, the Episcopal Church has undergone major theological and canonical changes regarding marriage, anthropology, and sexual ethics.

• 2003: The Church entered an era of intense debate over sexuality and marriage.
• 2018: Resolution B012 removed episcopal authority over same-sex marriage decisions, granting

that power to rectors.

• 2024: Resolutions A092–A093 established legal protections for both views on marriage and

clarified canonical procedures.

• 2027: Pending approval, gender-neutral marriage rites and catechism revisions will be added to

the Book of Common Prayer, while the 1979 BCP remains fully authorized.

Two Teachings on Marriage

1. Traditional Doctrine: Marriage is:
   o Between a man and a woman
   o Exclusive, lifelong, and open to procreation
   o Rooted in Scripture and revelation, beyond the Church’s authority to redefine
2. Revised Doctrine: Marriage is: o Between any two adults

o Exclusive and lifelong
o Not necessarily open to procreation

Both are recognized and protected within the Episcopal Church.

Canonical Provisions

• Clergy Discretion: Any cleric may decline to solemnize or bless any marriage (Canon I.18.7).
• Non-Discrimination: Beliefs about marriage cannot affect ordination, employment, or

deployment (Canon III.1.3–4).

• Episcopal Oversight: Bishops holding a traditional view must delegate oversight for same-sex

marriages to another bishop (Canon I.19.3; III.12.3.a). These measures protect clergy and laity of both convictions.

The 1979 Book of Common Prayer and 2027 Prayer Book Revision

The 1979 Book of Common Prayer has been memorialized, and permanently authorized for use in every diocese. Even if new rites are added in 2027, parishes may continue using the 1979 edition indefinitely.

Summary

• The Episcopal Church now lives with two doctrines of marriage, held in ongoing tension.
• Both traditional and revised views are canonically protected.
• The 1979 Prayer Book remains authorized for all use, ensuring continuity of worship and

theology.