VICE Dean of Chester Canon Trevor Dennis is challenging the Bishop's views in a very public way. He is encouraging the formation of a support group within Chester Diocese called Changing Attitude which urges full equality for gay, lesbian and bi-sexual people within the Church of England. Canon Dennis and the Bishop have had an exchange of letters on the subject of human sexuality but neither wish to see their disagreement portrayed as a row. This is not the first time the two Christian heavyweights have had a public debate. Canon Dennis preached a sermon in Chester Cathedral against the war in Iraq which the Bishop supported. What prompted Canon Dennis, who is heterosexual, to campaign for gay rights was the decision by the openly gay Dr Jeffrey John not to take up his appointment as Bishop of Reading after pressure from the Archbishop. He said: 'We are calling the meeting to explore the possibility of gathering enough people who are sympathetic to set up a group. 'This meeting was called when Canon Jeffrey John was stopped. A number of us were determined something like this should come out of it. 'It's about asking the question what can we do rather than screaming and shouting,' he said. 'It seems to me, and all of us, that there needs to be a safe-haven for gays and lesbians within the diocese where they know they will be welcome and accepted, where they will be listened to and have a voice and feel supported.' Canon Dennis differs from the Bishop in that he feels gay people, including those practising within loving relationships, should be accepted into the Church. He respects those who choose to remain celibate but believes it is a matter of personal choice. 'I have observed lesbian and gay couples who enjoy what, if they were heterosexuals, would be called good marriages - long-lasting, committed, loyal, faithful, loving, generous relationships. 'I don't inquire what they get up to in bed, just as they don't inquire as to what I and my wife get up to in bed,' said Canon Dennis, who said he was more concerned with the quality of the relationship. Canon Dennis said he and the Bishop had not fallen out. 'Our views differ. He knows that and I know that. We are not angry with one another. There is mutual respect for one another. I get on well with the Bishop. We have friendly relations with one another.' A meeting to discuss setting up the group is being held on Saturday, November 15. It aims to 'explore issues of sexuality and to give gay people or parents of gay people the opportunity to tell their stories'. Tickets are £5. To register for the day ring Alice or Julie on: 01565 652514. | 
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