The Assembly of Rabbis has moved a step closer to accepting Jewish gay 'marriages' -- stopping short of approving the actual ceremony itself.

The assembly, which provides guidelines for Reform rabbis, says it recognises there are Jewish homosexual couples who wish to enter into "life-long faithful unions". But says it needs more time before, if ever, giving its support to rabbinic involvement.

This resolution has attracted a mixed set of emotions from the gay community which says if the movement is willing to dip its toe in the water, then why not take a swim.

Rabbi Charles Emanuel, the senior rabbi at the North Western Reform Synagogue, in Golders Green, says the synagogue accepts the assembly's resolution, but refused to elaborate on whether it was in line with his own beliefs. He has organised a meeting to discuss the issue on June 14.

The assembly resolution reads: "In view of our increasing understanding and acceptance of homosexuality, and with a growing awareness of past injustices done to homosexuals, the Assembly wishes to state that homosexuality is not to be considered as sinful." It continues: "Homosexual acts of love between responsible adults in the context of a faithful relationship are not to be considered as immoral."

The resolution, the result of discussions lasting 18-months, concludes that involvement in a same-sex commitment ceremony is not incompatible with membership of the Reform movement.

Griffith Vaugh Williams, from the Campaign for Homosexual Equality, said he welcomed the Reform Movement announcement, but thought the only way to test the development was to launch it into practice.

"The movement may seem like it's taking the plunge, but they are dipping their toe in the water at the moment. Perhaps they should go ahead and cross the Jordan," he said.

Discussion of the resolution on June 14 begins at 8pm at the synagogue, Alyth Gardens, Finchley Road.

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