Bishop Backs Gay Marriage

Right Rev. Nick Holtam, Bishop of Salisbury has offered his support to gay marriage and gay couples, saying that gay marriage, "embodies a commitment to be faithful, loving, and lifelong. These are virtues which the Church of England wants to see maximised in society."

On Saturday, same-sex marriage became legal in Great Britain. Gay and lesbian couples across England and Wales were wed, to joyful acclaim from family, friends and the general public.

Although the Bishop was forthright in his comments, the Church of England is divided by the question of marriage equality. The Church's formal line is that Anglican clergy are not to marry partners of the same sex, despite heterosexual clergy being allowed to marry.

Bishop of Salisbury, Nick Holtam - Photograph: London News Pictures/Rex