Ottawa priest to raise issue

An Ottawa priest says he will bring a resolution to diocesan synod next month asking the diocese to approve the blessing of same-sex unions. New Westminster approved such a resolution in June, on its third attempt. Canon Garth Bulmer, rector of St. John the Evangelist church in downtown Ottawa, said his resolution reads: “Be it resolved that this synod ask the bishop of Ottawa to authorize requesting parishes to bless same sex unions.” The synod is scheduled to take place Oct. 18-19. Recognizing that committed homosexual relationships are blessed by God is a “fairly urgent pastoral need” in his parish, said Canon Bulmer in an interview.