Gays are welcome, Episcopal panel says

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — A top Episcopal panel reiterated the church's welcome of gays and lesbians, as it began talks on whether the denomination should meet Anglican demands to roll back acceptance of same-sex couples.

The Executive Council, a committee of clergy and lay people, issued the statement Sunday at the end of its three-day meeting in Portland. The council also emphasized that Episcopalians with traditional views of sexuality have a place in the denomination, too.

"We wish to reaffirm to our lesbian and gay members that they remain a welcome and integral part of the Episcopal Church," the council said, then offered "prayerful concern" for those who consider gay relationships sinful. "We wish to reaffirm that they too remain a welcome and integral part of the Episcopal Church," the council said.

In 2003, the Episcopal Church, the U.S. wing of Anglicanism, created an uproar when it consecrated the first openly gay bishop, V. Gene Robinson of New Hampshire.

Last month, Anglican leaders gave Episcopalians until Sept. 30 to unequivocally pledge not to consecrate another partnered gay bishop or authorize official prayers for same-sex couples. If it doesn't, the church risks a reduced role in the 77 million-member Anglican Communion.