by Matthew Davies

The second day of the Church of England General Synod was subject to an unexpected interruption when gay and human rights campaigner, Peter Tatchell, gate-crashed the floor and led a protest against "homophobic apartheid". Some members of the synod walked out calling for immediate reinforcement in security, whereas others welcomed the protest and applauded the group, further demonstrating the church's divide on issues in human sexuality.

Mr Tatchell's main request was for the church to talk, listen and understand the alienation that the gay community feels in light of recent events concerning Canon Jeffrey John and the See of Reading. He said, "If you want an inclusive church you must listen to those who are being prejudiced against."

There have been mixed feelings about whether or not the synod should introduce an emergency agenda item in order to debate the issue. However, it was decided last night that an addition would not be appropriate and that a "period of reflection" was necessary. The protestors left peacefully before the synod resumed its agenda.

Other peaceful campaigns were led outside the meeting by groups such as the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement (LGCM) and Changing Attitude, an organisation working for gay and lesbian affirmation within the Anglican Church.