Carlow Nationalist: Cleric’s same-sex union makes history

HISTORY is often made by taking little steps, and a County Carlow-based Church of Ireland cleric has inscribed his name in the annals.

The Very Rev Tom Gordon, dean of St Laserian’s Cathedral, Old Leighlin has entered into a same-sex civil partnership with his partner of 20 years.

The union is set to make history as it is understood Rev Gordon’s partnership is the first same-sex union for a serving Church of Ireland cleric.

The ceremony took place in a registry office in July, with 53-year-old Rev Gordon confirming the news to BBC Northern Ireland radio.

Originally from Portadown, Co Antrim, Rev Gordon became dean of Old Leighlin Cathedral in September of last year.

He is a former director of pastoral formation and extension studies at the Church of Ireland Theological College and was previously the part-time diocesan adult education officer, among other things.

Changing Attitude Ireland, a group of Church of Ireland members working with same-sex couples, passed its congratulations to Rev Gordon.